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In short If you are in crisis right now Campus counseling Other support Signs it is time to reach out Common questions SourcesIf you are struggling, start with whatever is easiest: campus counseling, 988 any hour, or a conversation with someone you trust. You do not have to wait until it is bad.
Support is available at different levels. Here is how to find the right one, and what to do if you are in crisis.
If you are in crisis right now
Call or text 988 in the US, any time, day or night. The 988 Lifeline is free and confidential. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911. If you have a plan or the means to hurt yourself, do not wait.
Campus counseling
Most campuses have a counseling center. Many offer a first appointment or a brief screening, and some have same-day crisis slots. Call or check the website for how to book, what it costs, and whether there is a limit on sessions. Ask about off-campus referrals if you need longer-term care.
Other support
Your primary care clinician can talk through anxiety, low mood, and sleep, and can refer you. Many campuses have peer support, resident advisors, and student groups. Pymander's AI doctor is free to text at any hour if you want to talk through how you are feeling and get a sense of next steps. It is not a therapist and not a crisis service.
Signs it is time to reach out
Reach out if low mood or worry lasts more than a couple of weeks, if sleep or eating has changed, if you are pulling away from people, if you cannot keep up with class, or if you are using alcohol or other substances to cope. You do not need to be sure it is serious.
Common questions
Who can I call at night if I am struggling?
Call or text 988 in the US, any time. It is free and confidential. For immediate danger, call 911.
Is campus counseling free?
Often it is included in student fees, but it varies by school and some limit the number of sessions. Ask the counseling center about cost and referrals.
Can an AI doctor help with my mental health?
Pymander's AI doctor can talk things through and point you to next steps. It is not a therapist and not a crisis service. In a crisis, call or text 988.
When should I get help for anxiety or low mood?
If it lasts more than a couple of weeks, affects sleep, eating, school, or relationships, or you are using substances to cope, reach out. You do not need to wait until it feels severe.
What if I am worried about a friend?
Take it seriously. Stay with them if you can, listen without judgment, and encourage them to call or text 988 or contact campus counseling. If they are in immediate danger, call 911.