We’re lucky to live in a society that has emergency hotlines to help those in sudden need. But it is very important to have those hotlines on file in case a crisis arises. It’s not always an easy step to pick up the phone and ask for help, but it can be necessary when you’re in a situation where you cannot help yourself or the person in need.
A hotline enables you to communicate with trained personnel who know how to handle your current situation, and offer you the assistance that you need. Several organizations offer immediate help. From sexual assault to substance abuse to domestic violence, you can get help 24 hours a day.
Of course, calling a hotline might not mean calling every time a problem arises. Some issues, especially those to do with mental health, will be far more effective if a person seeks further assistance from a medical practitioner after dealing with the immediate crisis.
To be ready for an emergency, these are the top five types of emergency telephone hotlines to keep in your files:
Mental Health
Sometimes challenges in life can trigger underlying mental health conditions, and even lead to suicidal cases. If you have suicidal thoughts or are close to someone dealing with mental health issues, the right support and information can help lead you to a more long-lasting solution or treatment. Find more specific treatment options in your area with this option.
If you or someone that you know is suicidal, contact the below:
- National Hopeline Network 1-800-SUICIDE
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free 1-800-273-8255
- National Youth Crisis Hotline 1-800-442-HOPE
- Disaster Distress Helpline 1-800-985-5990
- National Youth Crisis Hotline 1-800-442-HOPE
Alcohol and Drug Abuse
There are many resources that you can access related to alcohol and other drug abuse cases. Receive help and information when you call drug hotline numbers. Here are some toll-free phone numbers that you can use to find support:
- National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Helpline 1-800-622-2255
- Alcohol Hotline 1-800-331-2900
- Al-Anon for Families of Alcoholics 1-800-344-2666
- Alcohol and Drug Helpline 1-800-821-4357
- Alcohol Treatment Referral Hotline 1-800-252-6465
- Alcohol & Drug Abuse Hotline 1-800-729-6686
- Families’ Anonymous 1-800-736-9805
Domestic Violence
The domestic violence hotline gives you an opportunity to report any form of violence. This can be youth violence, among other domestic abuse cases. You can also get information about how to prevent and respond to these cases.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233
- Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868
Rape & Sexual Assault
If you or somebody you know has been a victim of sexual assault, a hotline can help with the counselling, support and encouragement a woman might need to move forward and report the crime to the police. Hotlines are generally available 24 hours a day:
- Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network Sexual Assault Hotline 1-800-656-4673
- Women Against Violence Against Women – 1-877-392-7583
Runaways/Missing Children
When a missing child is spotted, a quick reaction can be crucial in helping to return the child to his or her family. Keep a hotline number handy so that you can make a report immediately if needed.
- National Runaway Safeline 1-800-786-2929
- California Youth Crisis Line 1-800-843-5200
- National Runaway Switchboard 1-800-231-6946
- National Hotline for Missing & Exploited Children (800) 843-5678
- Child Find of America (800) 426-5678
Hotlines are an easy-to-use option when you want help for yourself or somebody you care about. Different states and provinces have different organizations that offer help in crisis management. Give them a call and receive the help that you need.