“We don't have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.”
- Brené Brown, PhD
Wellness Resources
Healing is an ongoing process—one that extends into daily life and community. This collection of trusted, evidence-based, and affirming resources is designed to support your continued growth. Whether you’re looking for immediate help, practical tools, or deeper understanding, these curated resources can guide and sustain you along the way.
If You Need Help Right Now
If you or someone you love is in crisis, please reach out — you do not have to face it alone. The following hotlines and services provide free, confidential support 24 hours a day.
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 to connect with trained counselors who can provide immediate support for suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, or any mental health crisis. Available nationwide, 24/7.
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Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741 to reach a trained crisis counselor via text. Ideal for those who prefer not to talk on the phone or need discreet support in the moment.
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Carolina Outreach Crisis Line (Durham area)
Call 1-877-626-1772 for mobile crisis response in the Triangle area. A clinician can help de-escalate crises by phone or, if needed, send a team to meet you in person for evaluation and support.​
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National Domestic Violence Hotline
Call 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org for confidential help, safety planning, and connection to local shelters and resources for anyone experiencing domestic or relationship violence.​
If you are in immediate danger or need urgent medical attention, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.
LGBTQ+ Affirming Resources & Support
These organizations provide identity-affirming, confidential support for LGBTQ+ individuals and families seeking connection, understanding, or help in moments of distress.
The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth)
Call 1-866-488-7386, text START to 678678, or use the chat feature at thetrevorproject.org to connect with trained counselors who specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ youth and young adults.
Trans Lifeline
Call 1-877-565-8860 to speak with a trans peer volunteer for emotional support, identity affirmation, and crisis assistance. This service is run by and for trans people, offering understanding and community-based care.
LGBT National Help Center
Call 1-888-843-4564 for confidential peer support, information, and local referrals for LGBTQ+ individuals of all ages. Specialized lines are also available for youth, seniors, and coming-out support.
GLMA: Health Professionals Advancing LGBTQ+ Equality
Visit glma.org to find directories of affirming healthcare providers across specialties, including mental health and primary care.
National Mental Health & Advocacy Resources
These national organizations share our belief that mental health care should be accessible, compassionate, and collaborative. They provide trusted information, advocacy, and community programs that support individuals and families at every stage of life.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Visit nami.org or call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) for education, advocacy, and support for individuals and families affected by mental health challenges. NAMI offers helplines, peer-led groups, and programs that foster connection and understanding.
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Mental Health America (MHA)
Explore free mental health screenings, educational articles, and advocacy opportunities at mhanational.org. MHA focuses on prevention, early intervention, and ensuring equitable access to care for all.
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Child Mind Institute
Find evidence-based guidance for parents, educators, and caregivers at childmind.org. The institute provides tools and resources to support children’s emotional well-being, learning, and healthy development.
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The Jed Foundation (JED)
Learn more at jedfoundation.org about programs that protect the emotional health of teens and young adults. JED strengthens resilience, belonging, and mental health education through school and community partnerships.
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National Federation of Families
Visit ffcmh.org for advocacy and education designed for families supporting children’s mental health. This family-run organization connects caregivers with resources and collaborative systems of care across the country.
School Support & Educational Advocacy
Understanding the special education process can feel overwhelming. The resources below offer guidance to help you understand your rights, prepare for meetings, and advocate for support.
Please note special education processes vary significantly by state. The resources and information below are specific to North Carolina.
Exceptional Children’s Assistance Center (ECAC)
North Carolina’s federally funded parent center, offering workshops, webinars, and one-on-one guidance for families navigating IEPs, 504 Plans, and special education rights. All of their services are provided at no cost to families. Learn more at their website, ecac-parentcenter.org
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Disability Rights North Carolina (DRNC)
Disability Rights North Carolina (DRNC) provides legal advocacy, downloadable guides, and clear explanations of the IEP and 504 process in North Carolina, including timelines and sample request letters.
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Duke Law – Children's Law Clinic
Duke Law offers plain-language guides designed to help explain processes and legislation that can otherwise be difficult to navigate. Their guides include information on special education law in North Carolina, laws around school discipline and suspension, and scholarship vouchers to support low- and moderate-income students with the payment of tuition at private schools.
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North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI)
NCDPI is the state’s official resource for parents and schools, including policies governing students with disabilities, testing accommodations, and Section 504 guidance.
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National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD)
Visit ncld.org for evidence-based resources, advocacy tools, and community support focused on individuals with learning and attention issues. NCLD partners with parents, young adults, and educators to promote inclusive opportunities, dismantle stigma, and build equitable futures.
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North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA)
NCSEAA oversees the Education Student Accounts (ESA+) scholarship program, which helps families of K-12 students with disabilities in North Carolina access flexible funds for tuition, tutoring, therapy, and educational technology. To learn about eligibility, application deadlines, and how to use the funds, visit k12.ncseaa.edu or call 1-855-330-3955.
Meeting Essential Needs
Mental and emotional well-being are closely tied to our sense of safety and stability. Access to food, housing, and other essentials make an enormous difference in healing and daily life. The following local community organizations provide support for individuals and families in the Triangle, North Carolina area seeking help meeting basic needs.
Food Access, Clothing & Household Essentials
End Hunger Durham
End Hunger Durham connects residents with community food resources, promotes equitable food access, and supports local partners working to address hunger across Durham County. Their directory of local food pantries and community meals provides up-to-date information on where to find free groceries, meals, and assistance throughout the area.
Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina
The Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina works to provide nutritious food to individuals and families across 34 counties, including Durham county. In addition to distributing food to community pantries, they offer programs for children, older adults, and families facing food insecurity. Visit their site to find a local food pantry or meal site near you or learn how to access emergency assistance.
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Note in the Pocket
Visit noteinthepocket.org for free clothing for children, adults, and families in need. Their Durham location provides "quality clothing to homeless and impoverished children and families with dignity and love."
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Furniture Project of Durham (JPIC)
When moving into housing or needing basic home furniture, the Furniture Project of Durham provides furniture and house-wares at no cost to the recipient. See icdurham.org/furniture-project-of-durham-jpic.html for more information.
Housing & Shelter
Entry Point Durham
Entry Point Durham connects individuals and families experiencing homelessness with local shelters, housing programs, and supportive services through one coordinated access point. Visit durhamnc.gov/entrypoint or call 984-287-8313 to get started.
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Durham Rescue Mission
Call 919-688-9641 or visit durhamrescuemission.org for emergency shelter, meals, and transitional housing for men, women, and families.
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Families Moving Forward
Visit fmfnc.org for temporary housing, case management, and support services for families experiencing homelessness in Durham.
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Durham Crisis Response Center (DCRC)
DCRC provides emergency shelter, crisis intervention, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by domestic or sexual violence. Their services are inclusive of all genders and sexual identities, with staff trained in trauma-informed, affirming care. The 24-hour help line, (919) 403-6562 connects survivors to safe housing, counseling, and legal support.
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Inter-Faith Council for Social Service (IFC) - Orange County
IFC provides safe, temporary housing for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, and/or sexual violence, and believes everyone deserves dignified and affordable housing. They also offer healthcare to their residence in partnership with Piedmont Health. Visit www.ifcweb.org for additional details on their programs, or call their main number at (919) 929-6380.
Financial & Utility Assistance
Durham County Crisis Services — Rent & Utility Assistance
Crisis Services provides short-term financial assistance for adults who need help to meet their essential needs. Call 919-560-8000 to apply for assistance with rent, utilities, food access, burials, bus passes, and accessing prescription medication.
City of Durham Water Hardship Fund
The Water Hardship Fund works to provide relief to Durham residential water customers facing large past-due balances. Applications can be submitted online or over the phone at (919) 560-1200.
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North Carolina Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP)
This state-run program helps eligible households with heating costs (electric, gas, wood, propane) each year. Applications can be submitted through the NC Department of Social Services or Durham County DSS. LIEAP specialists with Durham County DSS can be reached at (919) 560-8192.