Mental Health Resources
As adults, we want to do everything we can to keep the children in our lives healthy and happy, and so it is important to pay attention to a child’s mental health, just as we do with their physical health. It is important to be aware of warning signs that your child may be struggling. If your child needs more support than you can give, you may consider consulting with a school counselor, school nurse, your church, pediatrician, or mental health provider.
Resources for Supporting Young People’s Social, Emotional, and Mental Health
- COVID-19 Parental Resources Kit | Ensuring Children and Young People’s Social, Emotional, and Mental Well-being
- Teen Mental Health Causes and Dangers
- Mental Health America | Recognizing Mental Health Problems In Children
- Mental Health America | Talking to Adolescents and Teens, Starting the Conversation
- MentalHealth.gov | What signs to look for
- The Jason Foundation, Inc. (JFI) is dedicated to the prevention of the “Silent Epidemic” of youth suicide through educational and awareness programs that equip young people, educators/youth workers and parents with the tools and resources to help identify and assist at-risk youth.
- The Child Mind Institute offers 12 tips for addressing stress and fostering resilience in children who have experienced a traumatic event. Preventing or limiting exposure to news coverage is especially critical with toddlers and school-age children, since seeing or hearing disturbing events recounted in the media can make them seem like they are continuing to happen.
Mental Health Hotlines
- For 24/7 help with stress and anxiety, Texans can call the toll-free COVID-19 Mental Health Support Line at 833-986-1919.
- SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357), (also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service) or TTY: 1-800-487-4889 is a confidential, free, 24-hour-a-day, 365-day-a-year, information service, in English and Spanish, for individuals and family members facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. Callers can also order free publications and other information. Also visit the online treatment locators.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or Live Online Chat
- Austin — Integral Care 24-Hour Hotline (512) 472-4357, Crisisinfo@atcic.org
The Crisis Hotline provides 24/7 access to mental health professionals. Hotline callers receive immediate assessments, crisis intervention services (if needed) and referral to additional community resources.
- Hill Country MHDD Centers Crisis Hotline at 877-466-0660
