Mental health is an important part of overall wellness. Without good physical and mental health, our bodies and minds cannot function properly. In addition to the regular stress and anxiety faced on a daily basis, stressors can be compounded by home life, world events, responsibilities, and more. If you feel you require assistance, there are many mental health resources available in Los Angeles. If the cost of healthcare is holding you back, no need to worry. There are various free and low-cost resources available.
Driven by a passion for meaningful storytelling, James DuBose often draws upon the difficult aspects of life to bring meaning to his projects. Located in Los Angeles, California, James is a highly successful American television producer, filmmaker, and entertainment industry executive. Surrounded by like-minded individuals, who also strive to create and share meaningful content, DuBose is responsible for some of the most successful television shows. He shares some of the most helpful mental health resources available in Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (LACDMH)
James DuBose recommends the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, or LACDMH, as the number one stop for mental health resources. The LACDMH is the largest county-run mental health department in the United States. The resources offered by the Department of Mental Health typically focus on chronic mental illness. However, the department offers various services in an attempt to assist people of all ages with a wide range of mental health conditions. Reaching out to the LACDMH is a great first step towards improving your mental health. If the financial burden of health care costs is a concern, the department offers cost-effective options to support those who are in need. The LACDMH provides low or no-cost services for individuals who are low-income or do not have health insurance.
The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health provides a help line that is available 24/7. Help Line staff can offer mental health screenings, service referrals, support, counseling, and other advice and resource suggestions. The LACDMH Help Line can be reached at (800) 854-7771.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
NAMI, or the National Alliance on Mental Illness, also offers valuable mental health resources for those looking for assistance, says James DuBose. Since 1979, NAMI has aimed to improve the lives of Americans. Today, NAMI is one of the leading organizations in the country. They provide support, education, and various resources, as well as help to raise awareness about mental health.
For those looking to talk to someone, NAMI offers a helpline. The NAMI HelpLine is available weekdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (ET) and can be reached at 1-800-950-6264. When contacting the HelpLine, callers will reach a trained and experienced volunteer who can offer support, answer questions, and provide referrals for next steps. This resource is free and available to anyone who needs it, including those living with mental health conditions, as well as family and friends.
In addition to their nation-wide support line, NAMI offers support groups out of their local chapters. With such an extensive network, a local chapter is never far away. In Los Angeles County alone there are 11 chapters. Individuals can seek assistance at one of these local chapters or using NAMI’s online mental health resources.
James DuBose points out that online discussion groups, mental health education in the form of classes, presentations, and online videos, and publications are also available. As well, NAMI publishes reports and a bi-annual magazine called Advocate which focuses on all aspects of mental health and includes research and personal stories.
Resources Offered by Colleges
Mental health clinics and other services offered by colleges are also a helpful and cost-effective option. At these clinics, psychology students offer exceptional services for a fraction of the price. James DuBose suggests UCLA and USC, as two of the best resources.
UCLA provides in-person mental health services, as well as an app that offers meditation and other wellness content and tools.
In addition to an in-person clinic, the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work offers Telehealth, an online clinic that provides services via videoconferencing. Telehealth can be reached at 1-866-740-6502 and is available weekdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (PST). Service is available in English and Spanish. Those in need can access this resource for free.
Mental Health Screenings
If you’re not certain you need help, a mental health screening may be beneficial. Many of the resources listed above offer screenings to help individuals better understand their mental state. In addition to these resources, several services dedicated solely to mental health screenings also exist. For example, the screening tools offered by Mental Health America (MHA) are recommended by NAMI. These tools are a good place to start your journey if you believe you are experiencing the effects of a mental health condition. James DuBose notes that the tests found on the MHA website can be completed entirely online and will very quickly alert you to any condition that may require further exploration or treatment. Upon the completion of a screening, MHA will provide additional tools and resources to help you move forward with addressing your mental health concerns.
James DuBose on Immediate Assistance
If you, or someone you know, needs immediate assistance, there are many organizations available to help, says James DuBose. Most notably, the Crisis Text Line and National Suicide Prevention Lifeline are available 24/7 for those in need.
To connect with a live counselor on the Crisis Text Line, simply text LA to 741741. Your message will be sent to a highly-trained crisis counselor who can help you via text. Help can also be solicited by contacting the Crisis Text Line via Facebook.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline also offers 24-hour assistance. A trained crisis worker will answer your call and can help you through your time of need. Crisis workers can also provide additional resources and information relating to mental health services. To contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline call (800) 273-8255. Support is free and can be accessed at any time. Live online chat is also available on their website.
