If you are at the end of your rope

This is a post for anyone having some sort of severe crisis. I am posting it just before Christmas because a crisis can feel even more difficult during this time of year, but this list has information that is useful year round. As these links illustrate, no matter what sort of crisis you are experiencing, there is a resource available to help you.  (If you a feeling just a little bit "down" during the holidays, check out my previous post on "Holiday Blues.")

If you are experiencing a crisis during the Christmas season (or at any other time), here are some resources that might help.

For Prayers: If you feel the need for someone to pray for and with you, try the Silent Unity 24-hour prayer hotline, 1-800-NOW-PRAY (669-7729). 

For emotional difficulties: The national suicide prevention hotline is for anyone who feels they are in some kind of crisis, regardless of whether they are thinking of suicide. Visit their website or call them any time day or night at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).  

If you are living in an abusive situation: The National Domestic Violence Hotline can help. Visit their website or call 1-800-799-7233 | 1-800-787-3224 (TTY)

Homelessness: If you are homeless or fear that you are about to lose your home, visit the website for the National Coalition for the Homeless.

If you are a homeless teen or a teen thinking of running away from home, call the National Runaway Switchboard  at 1-800-621-4000 or visit the Switchboard's website at http://www.nrscrisisline.org/.

For Hunger: If you are hungry or don't have secure access to regular meals, there is a National Hunger Hotline.  Visit their website or call at 1-866-3hungry (1.866.348.6479) or 1-877-8hambre (1.877.842.6273).

If you lack healthcare coverage: go to https://www.healthcare.gov/. 

If you are experiencing grief: The national suicide prevention hotline helps individuals experiencing problems with grief as well. Visit their website or call them any time day or night at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).  

If you are grieving the loss of a pet: The ASPCA pet loss hotline can help. Visit their website or call (877) GRIEF-10.

For Veterans in crisis: If you are a Veteran of the US Military and having any kind of crisis, the Veteran's Crisis Line is for you.  Call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1 or send a confidential text to 838255 at any time of the day or night and any day of the year.

If you or someone you love is terminally ill: Visit the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization website to connect with local services.