If You Are In Crisis

Chronic pain can be devastating in many ways. The following resources are provided to help you find emotional support and help for your pain if you are in crisis.

If you are considering harming yourself and need someone to talk to right away, we ask you to take any of the following steps immediately, explain your intention and ask for help.

• Call your mental health counselor
• Call 911
• Call a suicide prevention/crisis hot line
  • 800-784-2433 or 800-273-8255
    
  • To obtain assistance if you are deaf or hearing-impaired
    call (800) 799-4TTY (4889)
    
  • Para obtener asistencia en español,
    llame al 1-888-628-9454
• Call your medical professional
• Go to a hospital emergency room

If you are considering suicide, please contact one of the organizations below. They are dedicated to helping people get through their crisis.

• American Association of Suicidology (202-237-2280)

• National Hopeline Network

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline  (800-273-8255)

• SAMHSA Mental Health Services Locator

• Suicide Crisis Center

• Suicide Prevention Resource Center
  877-GET-SPRC (877-438-7772)

If You Are a Veteran or in the Military

Veterans Affairs Suicide Hotline
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates a national suicide prevention hotline and live online chat option for veterans to ensure veterans with emotional crises have round-the-clock access to trained professionals.

• Call 800-273-8255 and press "1" to reach the VA hotline.

• New! Chat live with a crisis counselor and get help. 

Finding Someone To Talk To

If you are feeling sad or overwhelmed, it might help to talk to someone. Tell a family member, friend, therapist, minister, priest or rabbi or anyone who cares for you about how you are feeling. It is important to remember that you are not alone. If you think you or a loved one might be depressed, click here to learn about the signs of depression.

To find a social worker, psychologist or counselor, please click on the following:

• National Association of Social Workers
• American Psychological Association
• National Board of Certified Counselors

Click on the link below to visit APF's online pain support community:

• PainAid Online Chats and Discussions

Last Updated: 10/22/09