Finding Support Online

Where to Turn for Help


In today’s digital age, help is often just a click away. Whether you’re struggling with mental health, financial difficulties, education, or finding community, there are countless online resources designed to provide guidance, support, and connection. Here are some of the best places to turn when you need help.

1. Mental Health and Emotional Support

  • Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor 24/7.
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Offers education, support groups, and helplines for those struggling with mental health conditions.
  • 7 Cups – Provides free, confidential chats with trained listeners and professional therapists for emotional support.

2. Financial Assistance and Job Support

  • Benefits.gov – Helps you find federal and state assistance programs based on your needs.
  • CareerOneStop – Offers job training, career advice, and unemployment benefits information.
  • Feeding America – A resource for finding food banks and pantries across the U.S.

3. Housing and Homelessness Resources

  • HUD Exchange – Provides resources for finding emergency housing, rental assistance, and shelters.
  • Homeless Shelter Directory – A nationwide directory of shelters and resources for those experiencing homelessness.
  • 211.org – A free service connecting people with local resources for housing, food, and healthcare.

4. Education and Learning Resources

  • Khan Academy – Offers free courses in math, science, history, and more.
  • Coursera – Provides free and paid online courses from top universities.
  • GCFGlobal – A great site for learning essential skills like digital literacy, job readiness, and personal finance.

5. Community and Peer Support

  • Reddit Support Communities – Various subreddits offer peer support on topics like mental health, parenting, and addiction recovery.
  • SupportGroups.com – Online communities for people dealing with depression, anxiety, addiction, and other struggles.
  • Meetup – Helps you find local or virtual groups with shared interests and support networks.

6. Youth and Crisis Support

  • The Trevor Project – Crisis support and resources for LGBTQ+ youth.
  • Love Is Respect – Provides support for teens experiencing dating abuse or relationship violence.
  • DoSomething.org – Empowers young people with opportunities to create social change and connect with supportive communities.

7. State and City Resources

In addition to national resources, many states and cities offer local programs tailored to specific needs. People in need should check their state and city government websites for assistance with:

  • Emergency financial aid
  • Local food banks and shelters
  • Job training and employment programs
  • Mental health services
  • Legal aid and tenant rights

To find local help, visit your state or city website (e.g., Texas.gov or NYC.gov) and look for assistance programs under sections like “Health & Human Services,” “Community Support,” or “Public Assistance.”

You’re Not Alone

No matter what challenges you’re facing, there are online resources available to help. Seeking support is a sign of strength, and these platforms exist to connect you with the guidance, advice, and community you need. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out—help is always within reach.