Eight respondents selected reaching out to an anonymous app or hotline for emotional support — accounting for 1.31% of total answers. Such resources include the 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline or the Crisis Text Line. With 16 votes was support groups, making up 2.62% of answers. With significantly more votes was reaching out to a therapist or other mental health professional. This answer option received 60 votes, making up just shy of 10% of total responses. While 114 people selected that they prefer talking to a family member when in need, the top answer came down between a friend or partner. Accounting for 36.56% of total answers was talking to a partner, with 223 votes. In second place, talking to a friend raked in 189 votes.
No matter who you decide to reach out to, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) encourages those seeking support to do so only when they feel ready, particularly if they’re looking to discuss mental health. Sharing what we’re going through can be a vulnerable experience, which is why your personal comfort level with who you’re talking to is of the utmost importance.
If you or someone you know needs help with mental health, please contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, call the National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), or visit the National Institute of Mental Health website.