Mental and Emotional Wellness Resources: New York State Resources

One in five New Yorkers suffer from a mental health problem or substance use disorder, and too many go untreated. Mental illness and substance use disorders are both treatable, but only if those in need can connect to care. 988 is an easy starting point for New Yorkers to find mental health and substance use support. 988 is your connection to free, confidential crisis counseling, mental health and substance use support, information and referrals. You can reach the toll-free help line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone, text and online chat. Behavioral health professionals there can link you to the services you need. 988 counselors are available 24/7. They can provide support in over 200 languages over the phone. Text and chat support is available in English and Spanish.

NAMI-NYS envisions a world where all people affected by mental illness live healthy, fulfilling lives supported by a community that cares. Since its incorporation in 1985, NAMI-NYS has become New York’s leader in supporting and educating New Yorkers impacted by mental health issues and a preeminent voice advocating on behalf of individuals living with a mental illness and their families. In conjunction with our local affiliates around the state, NAMI-NYS is a national leader in producing peer-led NAMI Signature Programs and Support Groups such as Family-to-Family, Peer-to-Peer, Basics and Connections to individuals and families at no cost to members of the public. These life-changing programs help people navigate the recovery process as well as guide families and friends on how to support a loved one living with a mental health condition, while also managing your own self-care. NAMI-NYS is also available to introduce critical conversations about mental health to schools, organizations and businesses as we can present on a wide array of topics including NAMI Ending the Silence (specifically designed for middle and high schools), NAMI In Our Own Voice, Mental Health 101, Mental Health in the Workplace and how to build communities rooted in mental wellness.

The New York Mental Health Counselors Association (NYMHCA) is a professional organization dedicated to supporting, promoting, and advocating for mental health counselors in New York State. NYMHCA serves as a resource for mental health professionals by providing continuing education opportunities, professional development, and advocacy for legislative changes that benefit mental health practice and access to care. NYMHCA's mission is to enhance the profession of mental health counseling through leadership, education, and advocacy. The organization strives to ensure that its members adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards, ultimately aiming to improve the quality of mental health services for individuals, families, and communities throughout New York State.

New York State has a large, multi-faceted mental health system that serves more than 900,000 individuals each year. The Office of Mental Health (OMH) operates psychiatric centers across the State. OMH also regulates, certifies and oversees more than 4,500 programs, operated by local governments and nonprofit agencies. Our mission is to promote the mental health of all New Yorkers, with a particular focus on providing hope and recovery for adults with serious mental illness and children with serious emotional disturbances.

A project led by the partnership of WNED-TV Buffalo and the Family Justice Center of Erie County, working together to raise awareness about unhealthy relationships in order to reach teenagers and young adults in need. Know your resources to get help with an abusive relationship.