First, breathe. Remember the 3-3-3 rule: name 3 things you see, 3 things you can hear, and move 3 parts of your body. I understand the feeling of uncertainty of whether it is being “dramatic” or serious; I’ve been there. It may take time to fully realize or accept it, but this is not being dramatic. You are hurting, and when you’re in this state it can build up over time and feel dissociating. Please, do not underestimate the severity of it. Do not wait. It can get worse and even overwhelming/distracting without you realizing it. You do not deserve to go through life with this darkness hovering over you while wondering if it’s ever serious enough to seek help. You belong here, you deserve to take up space; own it and take care of it. 🙂
A helpline that I have found to be especially useful is the NAMI Helpline. They will connect you with volunteers who are more than willing and happy to assist or even just to chat. They can help you find affordable resources near your area and it is completely confidential – you can read more here:
https://www.nami.org/help
They are available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., ET (7a.m. - 7p.m., PT) Here is a quick guide from the link:
• Call 1-800-950-6264
• Text "HelpLine" to 62640
• Email helpline@nami.org
Never assume that you are being dramatic or that your concerns aren’t serious enough. If you are in crisis and need immediate help, please use the following resources (directly from the NAMI webpage):
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
– Dial or text 988 if you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or experiencing a mental health crisis and get connected to a trained crisis counselor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Crisis counselors listen empathetically and without judgment. Your crisis counselor will work to ensure that you feel safe and help identify options and information about mental health services in your area.
• Crisis Text Line
– Text HOME to 741-741
Connect with a trained crisis counselor to receive free, 24/7 crisis support via text message.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline
– Call 800-799-SAFE (7233)
Trained expert advocates are available 24/7 to provide confidential support to anyone experiencing domestic violence or seeking resources and information. Help is available in Spanish and other languages.
• National Sexual Assault Hotline
– Call 800-656-HOPE (4673)
Connect with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider in your area that offers access to a range of free services. Crisis chat support is available at Online Hotline (see NAMI link above for chat option). Free help, 24/7.
• The Trevor Project
– Call 866-488-7386 or
Text START to 678-678
Supporting LGBTQ young people during times of crisis by providing access to crisis counselors 24/7, 365 days a year. Crisis chat support is available at Crisis Chat (see NAMI link above for chat option).