What is the Fireside Project and how is it different from 988?

The Fireside Project (call or text 62-FIRESIDE / 623-473-7433) is a psychedelic-specific peer support line staffed by trained volunteers who understand psychedelic experiences. It is best for difficult trips, integration challenges, or psychedelic-related distress. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a broader mental health crisis line and is the right choice for suicidal ideation, severe mental health emergencies, or any situation requiring professional clinical support.

Is the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline confidential?

Yes, 988 is confidential. Counselors do not contact emergency services unless they assess an imminent risk of suicide or harm. Callers are encouraged to share openly without fear of automatic police dispatch. However, in genuine life-threatening emergencies, always call 911 directly for the fastest response.

Are there crisis hotlines specifically for LGBTQ+ people?

Yes. The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386, text START to 678-678, or TrevorChat online) serves LGBTQ+ youth. The Trans Lifeline (877-565-8860) is staffed by transgender operators for transgender individuals. These lines provide support from counselors who understand LGBTQ+-specific experiences and challenges.

What is the Crisis Text Line and when should I use it?

The Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741 in the US, or HOME to 686868 in Canada) connects you with a trained crisis counselor via text message. Use it when you cannot speak privately by phone, when you prefer text communication, or when sound could be an issue in your environment. Response times are typically a few minutes.

Do crisis hotlines work outside the United States?

Yes. In the UK, the Samaritans are available 24/7 at 116 123 (free). In Canada, the Canada Suicide Prevention Service is reachable at 1-833-456-4566. The International Association for Suicide Prevention maintains a directory of crisis centers worldwide at https://www.iasp.info/resources/Crisis_Centres/.

Crisis Hotlines | Psilobase

Introduction

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, immediate help is available. Crisis hotlines provide 24/7 support, counseling, and resources for people in distress. This guide lists important crisis hotlines and support services.

National Crisis Hotlines

United States

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (24/7)
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 1-800-662-4357

Canada

Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566
Text Support: Text 45645
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868

United Kingdom

Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)
NHS 111: For urgent mental health support

Specialized Hotlines

Substance Use

Substance Abuse Hotline: Various national and local services
Addiction Support: Many organizations offer 24/7 support

LGBTQ+ Support

The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386 (US)
LGBT National Hotline: Various services available

Youth Support

Youth Crisis Lines: Many countries have dedicated youth services
School-based Support: Contact local schools for resources

When to Call a Crisis Hotline

Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
Severe emotional distress
Feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope
Concerned about someone else's safety
Need immediate emotional support
Experiencing a mental health emergency

What to Expect

Trained counselors available 24/7
Confidential and anonymous support
Non-judgmental listening
Resources and referrals
Crisis intervention support

Emergency Services

For immediate life-threatening emergencies:

United States: Call 911
Canada: Call 911
United Kingdom: Call 999
Other Countries: Use local emergency number

Psychedelic-Specific Support

Fireside Project

Peer support line for people having psychedelic experiences:

Available during difficult experiences
Trained peer support
Non-judgmental assistance
Check current availability and number

Finding Local Resources

Search for local crisis services
Contact local mental health centers
Reach out to community organizations
Check with healthcare providers

Online Support

Online chat services
Text-based support
Virtual support groups
Mobile apps for crisis support

Important Notes

Hotlines are free and confidential
You don't need to be in immediate crisis to call
Support is available for friends and family too
Services vary by location
Keep important numbers easily accessible

Preparing for a Call

Find a private, quiet space
Have paper and pen ready
Be honest about your situation
Ask questions if needed
Take notes on resources provided

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes. Crisis hotline numbers may change, and availability varies by location. Always verify current contact information. For immediate life-threatening emergencies, call your local emergency services (911, 999, etc.). This information should not replace professional medical or mental health care.