When someone you love is struggling, it can be hard to know what to say or where to turn. This guide shares national and local Chesapeake mental-health resources for people experiencing a crisis, as well as for parents, caregivers, and friends who are concerned about someone they love.
Need help now?
Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It is free, confidential, and available 24/7 for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, a mental-health or substance-use crisis, or emotional distress — or for anyone worried about a loved one. You can also chat online.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Mental health resources in Chesapeake
In addition to 988, there is local support available in Chesapeake for people experiencing a mental-health crisis or thoughts of suicide.
- Chesapeake Cares Crisis Center at Heron's Cove
757-548-7000 (available 24 hours a day) | https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/3422/Crisis-Services - Chesapeake Integrated Behavioral Healthcare (CIBH)
757-547-9334 | https://www.cityofchesapeake.net/1346/Same-Day-Access - NAMI Coastal
757-499-2041 | https://www.namicoastalvirginia.org/ - Chesapeake Public Schools Student Assistance Program
provides comprehensive behavioral and mental health and telehealth services to students and families at no cost
If your child tells you they may hurt themselves
Hearing this can feel frightening, but you do not have to handle it alone. Stay calm, listen without judgment, and thank your child for telling you. It is OK to ask directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?” Research shows that asking does not increase suicidal thoughts or behavior.
- Take every statement, note, or threat seriously.
- Stay with your child if you believe they may be in immediate danger.
- Help make the environment safer by securing medications, firearms, and other potentially dangerous items.
- Call or text 988 together for immediate guidance and support.
- Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department if there is immediate danger.
- Follow up with a pediatrician, therapist, school counselor, or other qualified mental-health professional for continued support.
How to support someone you are worried about
You do not need to have the perfect words. A caring, direct conversation can be an important first step. Listen without judgment and let them share what they are feeling.
- Ask directly if they are thinking about suicide.
- Do not promise to keep suicidal thoughts a secret.
- Help connect them with support, including 988, a trusted adult, or a mental-health professional.
- Check in again after the conversation.
For more guidance, read the National Institute of Mental Health’s 5 Action Steps to Help Someone Having Thoughts of Suicide.
Small acts of care and connection matter. Reach out, listen, and remind the people you love that they are not alone and help is available.
For more information about warning signs and how to help someone in crisis, visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or the National Institute of Mental Health.
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