How to Get Help
- connectshteam
- Jan 20
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 27
First things first - It's okay to ask for help.
Asking for help can feel scary, confusing, or uncomfortable… but it’s also one of the bravest things you can do for yourself or someone you love. Reaching out for support doesn’t mean you’re weak, broken, or “too much.” It means you’re human, and you deserve support just like anyone else.
A lot of teens (and parents) worry about saying the wrong thing, not knowing where to start, or feeling like their problems aren’t “big enough.” You don’t need to be in crisis to ask for help. If something feels heavy, confusing, overwhelming, or just “off”... that’s reason enough to seek support, and this page is here to help you do that.
How to look for mental health support:
There are different types of helpers, and they all play different roles. You don’t have to know exactly what you need, but here’s a glimpse of where you can start:
Therapists/Counselors :
Therapists help you talk through emotions, stress, relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, and so much more. Sessions usually happen weekly or every other week.
They may be called:
Therapist/Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Psychologist
How to find one:
Ask a school counselor or trusted adult
Search online directories like PsychologyToday.com
Look for community mental health centers in your area
Ask your primary care doctor for a referral
Something to remember: It’s okay if the first therapist isn’t the right fit! Finding the right person can take time, and not everyone sticks with their first therapist. It’s important you find a space where you feel supported, validated, comfortable, and safe.
Psychiatrists :
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who focus on mental health and can prescribe medication if needed. Some people see a psychiatrist and a therapist at the same time, since medication can help manage symptoms while therapy helps build coping skills and create long-term change.
You might consider a psychiatrist if:
Symptoms feel intense or long‑lasting
Medication has been recommended by a doctor, therapist, or other healthcare professional
Therapy doesn’t feel like “enough” by itself right now
Other Helpful Resources/Professionals :
School counselors
Pediatricians or primary care doctors
Community mental health clinics
Faith‑based or cultural community programs
Crisis Support & 24/7 Help (Texas‑Friendly Resources)
Before starting, if you or someone you care about is in immediate danger, call 911.
If you need to talk to someone right now for support, the resources listed are free, confidential, and available 24/7. Remember, all these services are here for moments big and small. You are never “wasting their time.” You deserve to reach out for support.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988
Chat online at: 988lifeline.org
You don’t have to be suicidal to call. They also help with anxiety, panic, overwhelming emotions, or feeling stuck.
Texas Youth Helpline
Call 1‑800‑989‑6884
Text "TXTEEN" to 22580
Chat available online
This one is for teens and young adults in Texas who need support, guidance, or just someone to listen & hear them out in times of struggle.
211 Texas
Call 211 or visit 211texas.org
What to Expect When Reaching Out
Reaching out can feel awkward or scary… especially the first time. That’s normal, don't worry! Here’s what usually happens:
When You Call, Text, or Message for Help
You’ll be asked simple questions about what’s going on
You don’t need perfect words, you can take pauses or say “I don’t know how to explain it yet”
The person on the other end is trained to help, not judge
Remember you’re in control. You can hang up, ask questions, or ask for a different option
First Therapy Appointment
They’ll ask about what brought you in
They may ask about mood, stress, school, family, or sleep
You can share as much or as little as you’re comfortable with
If you’re a minor, therapists have specific confidentiality limits related to your safety, but you are never forced to talk about anything before you’re ready
It might feel “weird” or awkward at first, it doesn’t mean it’s not working! Therapy moves at your pace and works differently for everyone
Simple Scripts You Can Use When Reaching Out
You don’t have to come up with the “perfect” thing to say. You can borrow these!
Talking to a trusted adult: “I’ve been having a hard time lately and I think I need some support. Can you help me figure out what to do?”
Calling a therapist’s office: “Hi, I’m looking for counseling services for a teen and wanted to ask about availability.”
Texting or calling a crisis line: “I don’t feel okay and I need someone to talk to.”
If you’re not sure what you’re feeling: “I don’t know exactly what’s wrong, I just know I’m struggling.”
For parents: “I’ve noticed my child seems overwhelmed, and I’d like to learn more about counseling options.”
Helpful Words to Know In These Conversations
“Confidential”: What you share is private, with some safety exceptions
“Intake”: First appointment or initial questions
“Diagnosis”: A name for patterns of symptoms (not a label of who you are)
“Coping skills”: Tools to help manage emotions or stress
You don’t need to memorize these though, don’t worry! They’ll explain things as you go.
It’s normal to feel nervous, awkward, or unsure… these examples are just starting points. Whichever professional or support system you’re reaching out to is trained to guide these kinds of conversations, so take a deep breath – you’ll be okay!
Final Thoughts
Asking for help is a strong, brave step, especially in communities like ours where support hasn’t always been easy to access. Whether you’re
a teen trying to figure things out, or a parent wanting to help your child, you’re not alone. Support exists. Help is real. And you deserve care, understanding, and compassion… exactly as you are.
If you’re ready, take the next step. If you’re not, that’s okay too. We’ll be here either way.
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