Get Help
You are not alone! Help is available if you're struggling with anxiety, depression, thoughts of suicide, overwhelm, stress or other mental health concerns.
Quickly find the behavioral health information you need, whether an adult or adolescent.
- Depression
- Suicide Prevention
- Teen Mental Health Support
- Mental Health Support for Veterans
- Substance Use Support
You can also search for mental health support in the 988 resource database. If you need immediate support, call 988.
What Happens When You Call 988 In Maryland
If you know someone who is considering suicide, do not leave him or her alone. Try to get your loved one to seek immediate help by calling 988. You can also chat online with a mental health professional in English or Spanish.
Professionally trained specialists are available 24/7/365 to listen and talk.
211 specialists with Baltimore Crisis Response answer some of these calls. Elijah McBride is the Call Center Manager and spoke about the ways they can help individuals on the “What’s the 211?” podcast.
“So, when someone calls in, they’re going to be connected directly with a trained hotline counselor. That hotline counselor will provide adequate and accurate information to them, listen to them, and really brainstorm potential options and solutions to the particular crisis or problem they present over the phone,” McBride explained.
MDMindHealth/MDSaludMental (Adults)
Adults can receive motivational and inspirational text messages from MDMindHealth (English) or MDSaludMental (Spanish). The messages include actionable tips and tools to improve your mental wellness.
On mobile, click on the keyword to open text messaging. Otherwise, text the keyword to the phone number.
Adults: Text MDMindHealth to 898-211 | Text MDSaludMental to 898-211
MDYoungMinds (Teens)
Teens can receive informational text messages focused on adolescent concerns from MDYoungMinds.
On mobile, click on the keyword to open text messaging. Otherwise, text the keyword to the phone number.
Adults: Text MDYoungMinds to 898-211
211 Maryland offers text message alert programs which provide region-specific resource information or provide disaster alerts. Msg. & data rates may apply and msg. freq. may vary. For Help, text HELP. To opt-out, text STOP to the same number. Full SMS terms at https://211md.org/sms/ will also apply.
How Mental Health Impacts Us
Mental health impacts how you think, feel and act. It determines how you relate to others, make choices and handle stress, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
It's just as important as your physical health. Depression can even increase the risks of some physical health concerns.
If you're struggling, ask for help. It's a sign of strength. We're here when you need us most.
How to find a mental health provider
Finding a mental health provider can take time. On What's the 211? podcast and the Minorities and Mental Health Series on 92Q, we've talked with behavioral health specialists about the wait times and difficulty finding someone you trust, especially for the Black community.
It may take a few providers before you find the right fit. But don't delay treatment. Start the conversation with an available therapist as soon as possible.
When finding a therapist that's right for you, ask about:
- types of therapy they offer
- treatment options
- payment methods
You want a therapist you can have an honest and open conversation with. It may take a few tries before you find the one you connect with and trust. If your first choice isn't available, start the conversation with a therapist who has openings. It's a starting point. Mental health help is a process.
Therapy can help you feel validated and put words to what you're feeling.
Set mental health goals that work for you. Remember, it is ok not to be ok.
211 Mental Health Resources
Keep learning about community mental health support with these 211 mental health resources including podcasts and a community discussion on men's mental health.
Community discussion
Podcasts
Need to Talk?
Call or Text 988
Anyone in need of assistance with mental health or substance use-related needs can call 988. Learn about 988 in Maryland.
