Health and Medicine

Mental Health Awareness

Inspired by Mental Health Awareness Month, which is observed annually in May, we have designed this LibGuide featuring national and local mental health resources. Mental Health Awareness is a national movement to raise awareness, reduce stigmas & educate the public about mental health. This guide features resources for support & information to learn more about mental health.

If you or someone you care about is in crisis, take action with one of the following resources:

• Call a local emergency mental health center at 703-573-5679 (Merrifield Center), 703-536-2000 (Dominion Hospital), or 703-289-7560 (INOVA emergency services).
• Go to the nearest emergency room at your local hospital.
• Call 911.
• Call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - confidential support 24/7 by dialing the number 988.
• Chat online or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline here. 
• Text CONNECT to 85511 for the Crisis Link Hotline or call them 24/7 at 703-527-4077.
• Call the Veterans Crisis Line – confidential support 24/7, dial 988 then press 1, text 838-255, or chat online.
• For LGBTQIA+ Youth, The Trevor Project offers 24/7 access to to a trained counselor.
• The Trans Lifeline provides trans peer support in both crisis and non-emergency situations. The Trans Lifeline does not engage in non-consensual active rescue. Call their hotline at 877-565-8860

• Take a free online mental health screening.
• Learn about Mental Health First Aid and/or sign up for the course.
• Visit the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board to:
  • Learn about Suicide Prevention, including suicide warning signs.
  • Get assistance finding a local mental health service provider.
• For LGBTQIA+ Youth, The Trevor Project offers 24/7 access to to a trained counselor. For non-urgent situations, connect with other LGBTQIA+ Youth in a supportive, affirming environment at the TrevorSpace.
• The Trans Lifeline provides trans peer support in both crisis and non-emergency situations.

• Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) provides services for people of all ages who have mental illness, substance use disorders and/or developmental disabilities.
• Peer-Run Recovery Centers offer spaces for those struggling with mental health and/or substance use issues a place to connect with someone who has lived experience with recovery.
• Find a Local Mental Health Care Provider by Zip Code Find therapists, teletherapy, psychiatrists, treatment centers and support groups locally.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness - Northern Virginia Chapter NAMI provides education, support, and advocacy to improve the lives of those living with mental illness, as well as their families and friends, mental health professionals, and all who share NAMI's vision and mission.