If you are in immediate danger, call 911

If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available right now. You are not alone.

Crisis Hotlines (Free, 24/7)

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

988

Call or text 24/7 for emotional support

SAMHSA National Helpline

1-800-662-4357

Free referrals for substance abuse treatment 24/7

211 United Way

211

Connect to local food, housing, and utility help

Crisis Text Line

Text HOME to 741741

Free crisis counseling via text, 24/7

National Domestic Violence Hotline

1-800-799-7233

Safety planning and support 24/7

Veterans Crisis Line

988 then press 1

For veterans, service members, and their families

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

1-800-950-6264

Mental health info and support, Mon-Fri 10am-10pm ET

Mental Health & Coping

Re-entering society is hard. Here's what mental health professionals want you to know.

It's Normal to Feel Overwhelmed

Reentry is one of the hardest transitions anyone can face. Feelings of anxiety, confusion, anger, or sadness are completely normal. You are not broken — you are adjusting.

Take One Step at a Time

Don't try to fix everything today. Focus on your most immediate need — a safe place to sleep tonight, your next meal, or one phone call. Small steps add up.

Talk to Someone

Isolation makes everything harder. Reach out to a hotline, support group, counselor, or trusted person. You don't have to do this alone.

Avoid Old Triggers

People, places, and habits from before can pull you back. It's okay to set boundaries. Your future matters more than anyone's expectations.

Routine Helps

Structure your day — even loosely. Wake up at the same time, eat regularly, take walks. Routine reduces anxiety and builds momentum.

Celebrate Small Wins

Got an ID? Made a phone call? Showed up somewhere on time? That's real progress. Acknowledge it.

Write Things Down

Keep a notebook for appointments, phone numbers, and goals. When things feel chaotic, having it written down helps you feel in control.

Substance Use is a Medical Issue

If you're struggling with substances, it's not a moral failure. Treatment works. Call SAMHSA at 1-800-662-4357 for free, confidential help.

Need More Help?

Browse free mental health resources, rehab programs, and counseling services in your area.

BridgeBack

Free and low-cost reentry resources for every state. Everyone deserves a second chance.

bridge-back.org@gmail.com

Crisis Hotlines

988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 211 — United Way Helpline SAMHSA: 1-800-662-4357
BridgeBack Reentry Directory — All resources are community-submitted. Always verify information before visiting.