Mental Health Support Groups Across the U.S. and World

Navigating mental health can be challenging, but there are many resources available to offer support, both online and in-person. Throughout my time on the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline, I’ve learned about numerous support groups that genuinely make a difference in the mental health community. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or for a loved one, these resources provide valuable assistance and a sense of community. I have provided a list of these mental health-related support groups and resources below.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

NAMI.org offers various support groups and educational resources:

• NAMI Connection: A free, peer-led support group for individuals living with mental health conditions. Sessions are available weekly, biweekly, or monthly, depending on the location. Each session lasts about 90 minutes.
• NAMI Family Support Groups: These free groups are for adults who have loved ones with mental health conditions. Meetings typically last 60-90 minutes and are held weekly, biweekly, or monthly.
• Support Line: You can call 1-800-950-6264 or text “Helpline” to 62640. These support lines are available Monday through Friday from 10 AM to 10 PM.
• Educational Classes: NAMI offers various educational classes such as NAMI Basics for families supporting youth with mental health symptoms (youth = 22 or younger), classes for families of veterans dealing with mental health conditions, and other educational programs.

Peer Support Space

PeerSupportSpace.org is based in Central Florida but offers virtual services accessible to anyone over the age of 18:

• Free Virtual Peer Support: Available Monday through Saturday with two sessions per day: one at 12:00 PM and another at 6:00 PM EST. Includes general check-ins, game nights, virtual show & tell, and trivia.
• Contact: Email mary@peersupportspace.org for Zoom information.

Recovery International

RecoveryInternational.org provides free daily meetings, both in-person and virtual (meetings may be canceled on holidays):

• Meetings: Held every day with times varying between 10 AM and 10:30 PM EST (may vary by day).
• Locations: Meetings are available in the United States, Canada, and Ireland.
• Newcomer Meetings: Available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

Hey Peers

HeyPeers.com offers both free and paid support options:

• Support Groups: Includes groups for various topics such as Borderline Personality Disorder, eating disorders, parenting, postpartum issues, sleep problems, and more.
• Chatrooms: Features different chatrooms like those for friends and family members of those with mental illness, positivity groups like Rise and Thrive, and other specialized support areas.
• One-to-One Coaching: Available for personalized support.

Mental Health America (MHA)

MHANational.org offers a variety of mental health resources:

• Online Screening: Provides free assessments to determine if you might be experiencing signs of a mental health condition. These screenings offer a snapshot of your mental health and are not a formal diagnosis.

• Local Support Groups: Find local MHA affiliates in your state for support groups. Visit MHA Affiliates.
• Virtual Support Groups: Access virtual groups through Inspire at Inspire.com.

These resources have been invaluable in my work and personal experience. I hope they provide the support and guidance you may need on your mental health journey. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and these organizations are here to support you. 

Feel free to explore these options and find the support that best suits your needs. If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Remember, we are all still growing and flourishing!