A person who is struggling with mental illness may need mental health services. They can get help on their own, but sometimes the mental illness may prevent them from making that choice. You can reach out for mental health services at C4 or or see the Illinois Department of Human Services website for additional resources. There are also legal options for the loved ones of the person to make sure they get the help they need. These include:

• Admission to an inpatient mental health treatment facility
• Admission to an outpatient mental health treatment facility
• An alternative treatment in the community 
• Administration of psychotropic medication and electroconvulsive therapy 

If you or a loved one are experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call 988. This service is free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information on available resources, visit the Illinois Department of Human Services Help is Here webpage. 

Treatment for mental, emotional, nervous, or substance use disorders and conditions must be covered by those offering insurance through the health insurance marketplace. As of January 1, 2025, health insurance policies should include a free, yearly mental health prevention and wellness visit.

Wellness Checks in School

Schools, in collaboration with the Department of Healthcare and Family Services, can establish wellness checks for students in the 7th grade through 12th grade. The purpose of these wellness checks is to identify and help students who are at risk of mental health conditions, including depression or other mental health issues.

Finding a Mental Health Professional

• The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Chicago: If you are in Chicago, NAMI's Helpline is a free and confidential resource that can connect you to mental health and social services resources. Call the Helpline at (833) 626-4244. They operate Monday-Friday from 9:00 am-8:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• NAMI Illinois: To learn more about NAMI resources available throughout the state of Illinois, visit NAMI Illinois.  
• National Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255 (English); (800) 628-9454 (Spanish); (800) 799-4889 (Deaf & Hard of Hearing) Text: Text HOME to 741741 (English); Online by filling out a pre-chat survey here to be connected with a counselor. 
• National Hope Helpline: (800) 784-2433 (English & Spanish) 

In the event of an emergency, call 911.