Question 1

I'm in crisis right now — who do I call?

Accepted Answer

Dial or text 988 — the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, free and confidential, 24/7. For substance use or mental health referrals, call SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP. If you're a woman in immediate danger from a partner, also call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

Question 2

How do I find a therapist I can afford?

Accepted Answer

Community Mental Health Centers in every state offer sliding-scale therapy based on income. Medicaid covers therapy in all 50 states. Open Path Collective offers $30–$80 sessions nationwide. Psychology Today's directory filters by insurance, sliding scale, and women's issues. Many universities offer free counseling through graduate training clinics.

Question 3

Will going to therapy hurt my custody case?

Accepted Answer

Almost never — judges view voluntarily seeking mental health care as responsible parenting. Therapy records are confidential except for narrow exceptions (child abuse disclosure, imminent self-harm). If your ex tries to use your therapy against you, courts routinely reject that argument. Court-ordered evaluations are different and you should have an attorney.

Question 4

Is there mental health support for postpartum depression?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Postpartum Support International (1-800-944-4773 or text 'Help' to 800-944-4773) runs a free helpline and connects you to local providers specializing in perinatal mood disorders. Most OB/GYNs screen for PPD and can prescribe or refer. Medicaid covers PPD treatment, and many states extended postpartum Medicaid to 12 months.

Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS)

Contact & Details

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