The Best Resources and Organizations for Depression (2023)

If you’re experiencing loneliness, depression, or symptoms of a mental health condition, you don't have to feel alone. There are dozens of free and valuable resources available to you.

Many organizations can connect you to mental health professionals, support groups, and other free and easy-to-access information.

With more than 19.4 million Americans experiencing depression each year, it's important to end the stigma around mental health, instill early screenings, and make interventions and treatments available to all.

These are the best organizations for depression and other related mental health conditions.

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Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA)

If you or someone you know is in immediate need of a treatment referral for substance use disorder or mental health services, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA) National Helpline. It is free, confidential, and open 24/7, 365 days a year.

SAMHSA is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and is on a mission to reduce the impact of substance use and mental health concerns on American communities. The organization provides a wealth of services and information.

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One of their most useful features is the mental health treatment services locator, which directs you to an addiction or mental health treatment facility in your area. You can even narrow your search by services or languages to best suit your specific needs.

Contact:

1-800-662-HELP (4357)

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

While the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is best known for its advocacy work, it has also produced a large amount of information on mental health conditions, including signs and symptoms, treatment options, up-to-date statistics, and advanced research.

NAMI works on many initiatives and programs to provide intervention, treatment, and financial support by working with government entities to ensure that mental health is included in healthcare policies.

The organization addresses various aspects of public policy with the goal of improving the lives of those affected by mental health issues. They are working to improve policies, from making early intervention possible to reducing the number of people jailed with psychiatric conditions.

Contact

1-800-950-6264 or text “NAMI” to 741741

Best Insurance Companies For Mental Health

Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)

If you want to find a therapist to help treat your depression, this is a great place to start. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) is not a direct service organization, but it does maintain a large directory of mental health professionals, organized by location and speciality.

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It also provides quality, current, research-driven information on depression in the form of books, brochures, blogs, and webinars.

ADAA is a multidisciplinary professional organization that supports mental health professionals who work on anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and co-occurring disorders. It hosts an annual conference, as well as various industry events, and provides training, clinical fellow opportunities, peer consultations, and more to professionals.

The organization’s goal is to improve patient care, build best practices, and implement evidence-based treatments through scientific innovation. When you support ADAA, you support the many professionals who are working on the ground to help address depression disorders.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

If you or someone you know is experiencing severe depression or suicidal thoughts, you can call the national helpline for free, confidential support at any time. Expert counselors are available 24/7 to speak with you.

In addition to the helpline, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is actively involved in suicide prevention and crisis care. It offers a comprehensive list of therapists and support groups.

It also offers additional resources, such as a basic safety plan which can be utilized by loved ones in an emergency situation.You can read stories of suicide survivors on the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline website, which can help inspire you to seek help.

Get Help Now

If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.

For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.

988
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American Psychological Association (APA)

The American Psychological Association (APA) is a great resource for those living with depression. It has a psychologist locator, which allows you to search for therapists by name or location. There is also a database of more than five million records, as well as APA's own journals, books, webinars, and articles on various aspects of psychology and mental health.

If you are studying psychology, you can join the APA global community as an affiliate and get free copies of American Psychologist journal and Monitor on Psychology magazine. Affiliates can also get discounts on APA books, videos, journals, database access, and events. Membership fees range from $35 (high school students) to $67 (graduate school students). You can also get access to career support and professional networks designed for your educational level.

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is America's federal agency for mental health and one of the largest research organizations in the world committed to the treatment and prevention of mental disorders. It provides the most comprehensive, up-to-date information on medical studies and treatments, making it a great resource for those with depression.

You can learn about the medications and psychotherapies that help treat depression and even join a clinical trial through NIMH. The organization provides brochures, fact sheets, and statistics on major depressive disorder in addition to many other mental health conditions.

As the NIMH points out, “No two people are affected the same way by depression and there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ for treatment. It may take some trial and error to find the treatment that works best for you.”

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Division of Mental Health

Physical health and mental health go hand in hand, which is why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has resources on mental health. Your depression could be tied to a traumatic event, cancer diagnosis, health condition, or any other number of factors.

If you want to learn how your health and mental health align, this is a great place to start. The CDC offers expert information and resources for prevention, management, and treatment of depression. It also shares helpful links to helplines, directories, and other beneficial organizations.

The CDC provides a free mental health quiz to debunk the myths and eliminate the stigma around mental health. It’s worth taking to see what you know and what you could learn more about.

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA)

The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) takes an integrated approach to wellness. It offers support and education for those with mood disorders and has more than 600 support groups and 200 chapters. The peer-based, wellness-oriented support services are available 24/7 online.

Some of the most useful tools are the DBSA Wellness Wheel and Wellness Tracker, which focuses on nutrition, substance use, medications and symptoms, mood, and more. They also have an “Ask The Doc” clinical panel, DBSA podcast, informational newsletter, brochures, and videos.

If you’re a parent of a child who has mood disorders, you can join the support community, Balanced Mind Parent Network (BMPN), to discuss treatment options and gain support from other parents who are sharing similar experiences.

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Mental Health America (MHA)

The Mental Health America (MHA) organization helps advocate for mental health prevention, early identification, and intervention. It runs fundraisers for mental health programs, raises awareness of mental health through public education programs, and leads initiatives, programs, and interventions for those struggling with depression.

MHA has unique programs, such as Life on Campus for college students and the Back to School Toolkit for students and educators. Its initiatives include “May is Mental Health Month,” “BIPOC Mental Health Month,” and “IDONTMIND” which focuses on leading discussions around mental health, therapy, and asking for help.

MHA also has an interactive online space called Screening-to-Supports (S2S) for those wanting to take more control of their own mental health. The program includes referral information, mental health services, peer support, and do-it-yourself tools.

Every year, the MHA hosts the Mental Health America Annual Conference and produces The State of Mental Health in America Report, which details key statistics on mental health and psychiatric conditions. They also publish brochures and fact sheets on depression and other mental health issues.

If you’re interested in supporting or changing the legislation around mental health in America, then you can join the Mental Health America Advocacy Network.

A Word From Verywell

While these are some of the best resources for depression, there are dozens of companies and nonprofits who are working to provide new information, new prevention strategies, and new treatments. If you’re feeling depressed or experiencing suicidal thoughts and need immediate help, please visit our national helpline database. No matter what you’re going through, you don’t have to suffer alone.

National Helpline Database

FAQs

What are the best resources to use to manage treat depression? ›

If you or a loved one needs support, you can reach NAMI's HelpLine at 800-950-NAMI (800-950-6264) or text “NAMI” to 62640. Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) The ADAA works to improve the quality of life of those affected by anxiety and depression.

What is the organization for people with depression? ›

  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA)
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
  • Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
  • American Psychological Association (APA)
  • National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Nov 1, 2022

What are 3 reliable resources for help with mental and emotional disorders? ›

  • FindTreatment.gov. Find a provider treating substance use disorders, addiction, and mental illness.
  • American Psychiatric Association Foundation. Find a Psychiatrist.
  • American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Finder.
  • American Psychological Association. Find a Psychologist.

What is depression best answer? ›

Depression is a common mental disorder. Globally, it is estimated that 5% of adults suffer from the disorder. It is characterized by persistent sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in previously rewarding or enjoyable activities. It can also disturb sleep and appetite.

What are three effective ways to treat depression? ›

Three of the more common methods used in depression treatment include cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Often, a blended approach is used. [Read: Online Therapy: Is it Right for You?]

What are 3 ways that can help prevent or manage depression? ›

But you can:
  • Find ways to handle stress and improve your self-esteem.
  • Take good care of yourself. Get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise regularly.
  • Reach out to family and friends when times get hard.
  • Get regular medical checkups, and see your provider if you don't feel right.
  • Get help if you think you're depressed.
Sep 17, 2021

Does organization help depression? ›

The Benefits of Getting Organized

7 benefits of organization include: Reduced stress. Better sleep. Reduced depression/anxiety.

What organization could help with emotional health? ›

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

Built on the values of hope, inclusion, empowerment, compassion, and fairness, NAMI is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for millions of Americans.

What organization is responsible for mental health? ›

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) | National Institutes of Health (NIH)

What are some resources available to individuals with mental illness? ›

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): For general information on mental health and to locate treatment services in your area, call SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Why are resources for mental health important? ›

Mental health services also reduce the risk of chronic diseases related to stress, anxiety and substance abuse. Most importantly, mental health services save lives, while improving the outlook for people who may feel hopeless and lost.

What resources needed for mental health awareness? ›

Online and phone resources
  • The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-8255.
  • The Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.
  • The National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1-800-799-7233, or if a person is unable to speak safely, text LOVEIS to 1-866-331-94-74.
Sep 28, 2020

What are the 4 main causes of depression? ›

Causes - Clinical depression
  • Stressful events. Most people take time to come to terms with stressful events, such as bereavement or a relationship breakdown. ...
  • Personality. ...
  • Family history. ...
  • Giving birth. ...
  • Loneliness. ...
  • Alcohol and drugs. ...
  • Illness.

What are the 3 levels of depression? ›

You may be diagnosed with mild, moderate or severe depression. Your mental health professional may diagnose you with depression if these symptoms: happen most days. last for at least two weeks.

What is depression actually called? ›

Depression (also known as major depression, major depressive disorder, or clinical depression) is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working.

What is the first choice treatment for depression? ›

TREATMENT FOR MAJOR DEPRESSION — For the initial treatment of major depression, we suggest a combination of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy.

What is the first step to treating depression? ›

The first step in treating clinical depression is recognizing that you are depressed. The second step is seeking help. These two steps may in fact be the hardest part of the entire treatment process.

What activities prevent depression? ›

This includes running, swimming, walking, hiking, aerobics classes, dancing, cross-country skiing, and kickboxing. According to the Mayo Clinic, engaging in at least 30 minutes of exercise on three to five days of the week could significantly lessen depressive symptoms.

What are some self help 5 strategies that may help people with their depression? ›

Here are 5 self-help strategies for depression:
  • Exercise. Both aerobic exercise like walking or jogging and anaerobic exercise like weight lifting can help alleviate symptoms of depression.
  • Relaxation training. ...
  • Light therapy. ...
  • Self-help books based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). ...
  • Computerized therapy.
Jul 2, 2018

How can organizations reduce stress? ›

Getting organized can reduce your stress levels because it can end the last-minute scrambling in various situations. Getting organized can also feel empowering and exciting, rather than taxing, making it more likely that you will stick to it in the long run.

How does organization help a person? ›

Staying organized and productive at work helps you stay focused and complete tasks on time. When you are organized and productive, you can prioritize work and excel, which aids your career progress and success. There are several options for organizing your responsibilities and tasks, depending on your work style.

How does organizations help? ›

Organizations are systems created to achieve common goals through people-to-people and people-to-work relationships. They are essentially social entities that are goal-directed, deliberately structured for coordinated activity systems, and is linked to the external environment.

What activities help mental and emotional health? ›

12 Activities to Boost Your Mental Health
  • Talk to a close friend or loved one. ...
  • Get moving. ...
  • Unplug and unwind. ...
  • Volunteer. ...
  • Play to your strengths. ...
  • Get lost in music. ...
  • Connect to your community. ...
  • Keep a journal.
May 4, 2021

What is the biggest mental health charity? ›

1. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Mission: Through advocacy, public awareness, support, and education, NAMI works to ensure individuals with mental illness live fulfilling, healthy lives.

What support would be given to someone with mental health concerns? ›

What emotional support can I offer?
  • Listen. Simply giving someone space to talk, and listening to how they're feeling, can be really helpful in itself. ...
  • Offer reassurance. Seeking help can feel lonely, and sometimes scary. ...
  • Stay calm. ...
  • Be patient. ...
  • Try not to make assumptions. ...
  • Keep social contact.

Does organization affect mental health? ›

Less stress and frustration

When you're in a cluttered space, you may experience a consistent low-level stress because of your environment. Organizing your space can help to reduce this stress. Plus, when you know where everything goes and everything has a place, you'll be able to find things easier.

Which of the following is the largest funder of mental health services? ›

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is the largest funder of research on mental disorders in the world. Below you can find NIMH funding opportunities and announcements, including those specific to clinical research and training.

Who are the largest group of mental health professionals? ›

Professional social workers are the largest group of mental health service providers.

What are mental resources? ›

Mental Health Resources (MHR) is a progressive, nonprofit organization that offers community-based mental health and substance use disorder services to adults recovering from serious mental illness.

Which resource is considered the first line of mental health treatment? ›

While medications do not necessarily cure most mental illnesses, they markedly reduce symptoms for most people, and are generally considered the first line of treatment for more severe mental illnesses.

What is emotional resources? ›

Emotional resources are those assets and skills within ourselves that we can rely on to take care of ourselves. Social resources are those support systems, other people, institutions and professionals that we may rely on to help us in times of need.

How does community help mental health? ›

Building thriving communities helps foster mental health and wellbeing for everyone. When community members feel connected and have safe places to gather, and when they have access to affordable housing and good jobs, they experience less stress and anxiety.

Which is the most widely used treatment today for mental disorders? ›

Psychotherapy or counseling.

It is one of the most common treatments for mental health disorders.

How can we promote mental health in the community? ›

Any activities that promote exercise, sleep, and good nutrition. Projects that encourage help-seeking and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. Initiatives that encourage gratitude and mindfulness. Creating spaces for communities to gather, build relationships and identify common needs.

What are three sources of support for individuals seeking help with mental health issues? ›

These might include community mental health teams (CMHTs), social care services, residential care services, and crisis resolution and home treatment teams (CRHTs or 'crisis teams'). To find out more see our pages on: support services.

What are physical resources in mental health? ›

Physical resources include perceived health and independence in functional and instrumental activities of daily living, while psychological resources include mastery, self-esteem, and coping.

What resources are there for psychotic depression? ›

If you're concerned about someone and think they may have psychosis, you could contact their social worker or mental health team if they've previously been diagnosed with a mental health condition. Contact the person's GP if this is the first time they've shown symptoms of psychosis.

What is the biggest thing that causes depression? ›

What causes depression?
  • Childhood experiences.
  • Life events.
  • Styles of thinking.
  • Other mental health problems.
  • Physical health problems.
  • Family history.
  • Medication.
  • Recreational drugs and alcohol.

What is the most common factor of depression? ›

Common Causes of Depression
  • Genetics.
  • Brain chemistry.
  • Certain medical conditions.
  • Substance use.
  • Stress.
  • Poor nutrition.
Mar 2, 2022

What is the most major form of depression? ›

Clinical depression is the more-severe form of depression, also known as major depression or major depressive disorder. It isn't the same as depression caused by a loss, such as the death of a loved one, or a medical condition, such as a thyroid disorder.

What is the number one symptom of depression? ›

Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness. Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters. Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports. Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much.

What is type 2 depression? ›

Depressive episodes in bipolar II disorder are similar to "regular" clinical depression, with depressed mood, loss of pleasure, low energy and activity, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and thoughts of suicide. Depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder can last weeks, months, or rarely years.

What are the 2 main types of depression? ›

Major depressive disorder and persistent depressive disorder are two of the most common types of depression that people experience, however, there are many types of depression. What most mood disorders have in common are major depressive episodes.

Is depression actually a mental illness? ›

Depressive disorder (also known as depression) is a common mental disorder. It involves a depressed mood or loss of pleasure or interest in activities for long periods of time. Depression is different from regular mood changes and feelings about everyday life.

When should you walk away from someone with mental illness? ›

As much as you might love or care for the individual, if they are emotionally, mentally, or physically abusive, it is okay to step away from the situation. Some examples of emotional, mental, and physical abuse include: Emotional & Mental Abuse: Being dissatisfied, no matter how hard you try or how much you give.

Is depression a form of mental illness? ›

Depression is a common mental disorder. Globally, it is estimated that 5% of adults suffer from the disorder. It is characterized by persistent sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in previously rewarding or enjoyable activities.

What is most commonly used to treat depression? ›

The kind of psychological treatment that is most commonly used for depression is known as cognitive behavioral therapy (often called “CBT” for short).

What is one method used to treat a mental illness like depression? ›

Psychotherapy. Psychotherapy, also called talk therapy, involves talking about your condition and related issues with a mental health professional. During psychotherapy, you learn about your condition and your moods, feelings, thoughts and behavior.

What are the top 5 anti depression? ›

The five well-known, FDA-approved SSRIs to treat depression are:
  • Citalopram (Celexa)
  • Escitalopram (Lexapro)
  • Fluoxetine (Prozac)
  • Paroxetine (Paxil)
  • Sertraline (Zoloft)
Dec 15, 2022

Is there any real treatment for depression? ›

Taking an antidepressant or going to psychological counseling (psychotherapy) eases depression symptoms for most people.

What are two psychological treatments for depression? ›

Depth psychotherapy: This is similar to analytical therapy, but it focuses more on current conflicts. Systemic therapy: Systemic therapy is based on the assumption that relationships between people, especially those within the family, play an important role in the development and treatment of depression.

What are the two most effective forms of treatment for mental health disorders? ›

Medication paired with psychotherapy is the most effective way to promote recovery.

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