One in five Americans will experience a mental illness in their lifetime, and more than 20 million Americans ages 12 and older will experience an addiction. Despite the high rate of mental illness and substance use in the U.S., there is also hope for recovery.

Knowing what resources are available, both nationally and in your community, can be a great first step to getting you or someone you know on the path to recovery.

Here is a list of great resources to help with some common mental health challenges:

Depression

1. Brain and Behavior Research Foundation: Check out some of the emerging research to better treat brain and behavior disorders.
2. Mental Health America (MHA): Take action by identifying early signs of depression with a quick diagnostic test.
3. Postpartum Support International (PSI): Depression can hit during pregnancy or postpartum, but there are plenty of resources offered by PSI to help mothers cope.

Anxiety

1. Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA): Provides a therapist directory, therapy option guide and more info for those dealing with anxiety.
2. Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine (BHI): This clinical research facility at Massachusetts General Hospital has an online store offering CDs, DVDs and books on relaxation techniques.
3. Obsessive-Compulsive Foundation: Gives helpful ways to detect and treat OCD in children.

Suicidal Thoughts

1. American Association of Suicidology (AAS): Promotes research, public awareness, public education and training for professionals and volunteers. If you are a survivor of suicide loss, you can search the SOS Directory to find support groups in your area.
2. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP): Provides information about suicide, support for survivors, prevention, research and more.
3. Suicide Prevention Resource Center: Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) if you or someone you know has experienced recent thoughts of suicide.

Substance Use

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Smokefree.gov): The unique Daily Challenges and Practice Quit Text Message Programs offer continual digital support in kicking your smoking habit.
2. National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (NCADD): Features information on local resources for getting help for a substance use concern, fact sheets and further information for friends, family members, parents and youth on having a conversation about substance use.
3. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Will help you find ways to treat your substance use.

Eating Disorders

1. National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD): If you’re concerned about a loved one showing signs of an eating disorder, call the ANAD Helpline at 630-577-1330 for 24-hour support.
2. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Browse through several links leading to more information about eating disorders, or read personal anecdotes on recovery for a dose of hope.
3. National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): If you’ve experienced loss, NEDA’s Loss Support Network can help connect you with those who have gone through a similar experience.

Arming yourself with available resources can help you start a productive conversation about mental health or addiction so you can better support someone who may need help. If you aren’t already, getting trained in Mental Health First Aid can help you better recognize, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use challenges. #BeTheDifference and sign up for a course today.