This post is intended to provide information and resources to assist you when you are in need of mental health resources. It is not meant to diagnose or treat any mental health issues.
Sometimes you need immediate guidance for your mental health, brought on by mounting physical, emotional or financial stressors in life. This is where mental health lifeline numbers can be especially helpful. You can even program them in your phone so you can dial or text them for immediate assistance.
These mental health lifelines are staffed by professional crisis counselors that will hear out your concerns and also work with you to find local resources to give additional guidance and support. The 988 Lifeline Chat and Text service works like this – you text “988” on your phone, and it will connect you directly to counselors that have been accredited by the American Association of Suicidology or the International Council for Helplines. “988” works across the U.S. and in certain territories.
This is a great option to offer to a friend or family member who lives far away from you but needs immediate assistance. These lifelines help ‘set the ball rolling’ when it comes to mental health treatment.
For immediate help in the Greater Cleveland area, call the NAMI Greater Cleveland Helpline at 216-875-7776 or text 741741.
If you or a loved one has witnessed trauma or abuse, call Frontline Service at (216) 623-6888 at any time, 24/7. Frontline Service is supported by ADAMHS in Cuyahoga County.
Sometimes people worry that they cannot afford mental health services. Usually, a provider can work out a payment plan with you or refer you to another service that will help you. Ask your potential provider if they offer sliding scale services or charity ‘scholarships’ to cover for services. Ask if you must pay back these services if you do not continue treatment.
Here are two mental health service providers that accept Medicaid close to Westlake, Ohio. REACH Behavioral Health at (216) 453-1112, and Signature Health Lakewood, at (440) 578-8200. Keep in mind that many service providers will ask you to take a diagnostic assessment before offering services. These can take anywhere from 15-90 minutes depending on the provider.
You may be surprised to find that mental health services cover a wide range of circumstances. Some help specific groups of people like caregivers, veterans, senior citizens, children, people of color and LGBTQ+ communities. The NAMI Cleveland community page is a great place to start.
It is possible to find care specific to your needs.
Lastly, I recommend a book in Porter’s own collection: You are not alone: the NAMI Guide to navigating mental health – with advice from experts and wisdom from real people and families by Dr. Ken Duckworth, M.D.
Good luck on your mental health journey!
