The Right Resources Can Help You Manage Depression
If you’re experiencing depression, know that your condition is treatable, and help is available. Here’s a list of depression organizations, articles, and websites for more information and support.
If you or a loved one is experiencing depression, know that compassionate help is available. These organizations, articles, and websites provide information and support to people with depression and their loved ones.
Organizations That Educate and Offer Help
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) NAMI is the largest grassroots mental health organization devoted to improving the lives of those affected by mental health conditions like depression. Through various programs, it aims to change public perception about mental health conditions, help its members manage their mental health, and build up family relationships. If you or a loved one needs support, you can reach NAMI’s HelpLine at 800-950-NAMI (800-950-6264) or text “NAMI” to 62640.
Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) The ADAA works to improve the quality of life of those affected by anxiety and depression. This nonprofit's programs provide education, resources, and support for people to find treatment. If you’re looking for a therapist, check out the ADAA’s directory.
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) The NIMH is the leading federal agency committed to understanding the treatment and prevention of mental health conditions like depression. It funds research to improve how professionals understand and treat mental health conditions. If you’re interested in joining a study to help researchers learn more about depression, visit the NIH’s clinical trials page.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention The mental health resources from the CDC are a good source of public health information. Learn the facts and statistics about depression in the United States, and test your knowledge of mental health conditions by taking its Mental Health Quiz.
American Psychological Association On the website of this professional organization of psychologists, learn how a psychologist can work with you to alleviate your symptoms of depression. The APA’s page on depression offers both news and podcasts to help you learn more about this condition and keep up on the latest news and research.
American Psychiatric Association This medical society's members work to ensure that people with mental health conditions like depression receive universal and equitable access to high-quality mental health care. Educational resources about depression, as well as help finding a psychiatrist, are available on its website.
Financial Help With the Cost of Therapy and Medication
Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America Medicine Assistance Tool This confidential search engine will help you find therapy and prescription assistance free of charge. You can apply for savings cards or financial assistance programs, or simply learn more about prescription costs, healthcare insurance, and more. To receive assistance by phone, call 571-350-8643.
NeedyMeds This national nonprofit provides information on healthcare programs and connects people to programs that can help them afford their medications and other health-related costs. Its Drug Pricing Calculator allows you to compare the cost of your medications at different pharmacies in your area. For more assistance, you can reach the NeedyMeds Helpline at 800-503-6897.
Social Security Administration Find out if you qualify for Medicare benefits, and discover what medication and therapy services are covered by Medicare.
Care for Your Mind This website offers information for people with depression and bipolar disorder, including advice on finding affordable therapy. It also provides information on care coordination, access to treatment, veterans, workplace issues, Medicare, and more.
Coping, Advocacy, and Support for People With Depression
Anxiety and Depression Association of America On its website, this international nonprofit offers blogs by experts and patients, educational webinars, and help finding a support group near you (or information on how to start one if none are available in your area).
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention This organization offers support and educational material for people with suicidal thoughts and their loved ones, as well as people who have lost a loved one to suicide. Learn how to talk to someone who is having suicidal thoughts, or get help for yourself or someone you know who may be considering suicide. If you need to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, call or text 988.
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) The DBSA aims to educate and support people with depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders, as well as empower those with these conditions to live well. On its website, you can find a support group — local or online — or keep track of your mental health journey using its Wellness Toolbox.
Erika’s Lighthouse This nonprofit builds awareness around depression among young people. Get a better understanding of youth mental health through stories on its blog. Also, check out its Teen Toolbox if you are or know a teenager struggling with depression.
Families for Depression Awareness This organization provides support for families of loved ones with depression or bipolar disorder. If you think you or a loved one may have depression, Families for Depression Awareness offers an anonymous test you can take. Its website also has a tool to help you find out if depressive disorders run in your family.
HelpGuide HelpGuide is an online resource designed to educate people on mental health and help people better understand how they can support their mental health. Have a look at HelpGuide’s depression resources. If you’re feeling stressed, listen to one of its relaxing guided meditations.
To Write Love on Her Arms This nonprofit organization aims to support people who live with depression, addiction, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts and also invests in treatment options. You can read personal stories on its blog, listen to discussions about mental health on its podcast, and keep track of your mood on its self-care app, The Hopeful.
Resources for LGBTQ+ Individuals
The Trevor Project This national organization focuses on mental health and suicide prevention among young people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer. Reach its crisis help line by calling 866-488-7386 or texting 678-678.
It Gets Better Project This nonprofit organization supports, empowers, and connects LGBTQ+ people from all over the world. Read or watch stories told by LGBTQ+ people, or share your own.
Human Rights Campaign This organization is geared toward fighting for the equal treatment of LGBTQ+ people. Check out the campaign’s Healthcare Equality Index 2022, which assesses the inclusivity of healthcare practices and policies.
Resources for Black Individuals
Therapy for Black Girls This organization aims to destigmatize mental health issues among young Black women and girls, and provide them with information that is accessible and applicable to their life experiences. Check out their blog, listen to their podcast, Therapy for Black Girls, and find a therapist who can see you either in person or online.
Depressed While Black This online community advocates for Black-affirming mental health support for Black people who have severe depression. Stay up-to-date with the community on their Facebook page, or sign up for their newsletter.
Medications and Therapies Used to Treat Depression
Learn More About How to Create a Depression Treatment Plan
Patient Blogs on the Real Experience of Coping With Depression
Lawyers With Depression Dan Lukasik, a lawyer in Buffalo, New York, started this blog to help law students, judges, and lawyers who have depression. Read his posts about finding silver linings in dark times, depression among men, and how to change your thinking.
Postpartum Progress Katherine Stone founded Postpartum Progress, the world’s most widely read blog about maternal mental illness, to help other pregnant women and new mothers with postpartum depression and other mental illnesses related to pregnancy and childbirth. On the website, you can find treatment programs, support groups in your area, a list of Black mental health providers, and more.
Tests to Gauge if You May Have Depression
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
Information About Clinical Trials That Address Depression
Anxiety and Depression Association of America
National Institute of Mental Health
Additional reporting by Pamela Kaufman, Nicol Natale, Bernadette Young, Leona Vaughn, and Christina Vogt.