Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Resources and Support 

Share this article! Here's a short link you can use: http://im.vu/help920

If you're in immediate physical danger, please contact local emergency services. 

IMVU is a social network where real life comes to play, but if you or a friend is going through something difficult and the threat isn't immediate, we want you to know there are things you can do right now that may help:
 

Talk with someone you know and with whom you feel comfortable.

Think of the people in your life who have been supportive or with whom you feel comfortable. That person might be a friend, family member, guidance counselor, coach or teacher, faith-based or community leader, or your family doctor or medical provider.
 

Talk with a person who is trained to help.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a tremendous resource—whether you are feeling suicidal or just don't know where else to turn. Their counselors are trained to help you feel comfortable, and they can help you find an appropriate place or person for ongoing support or help.
 

Learn about other ways to support yourself.

It can be challenging to focus when you're overwhelmed or can't find a solution to a problem right away. Stop for a moment, take a deep breath, and give yourself a break from your feelings.

Try some of these tips from self-care experts at Forefront and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
 

Change your surroundings:

• Go for a walk outside if you can.
• Let in some fresh air by opening a window or a door.
• Try sitting in a different room, on a doorstep or even just facing a different direction.

Be creative:

• Draw something simple.
• Make a nice meal.
• Write a short story.

Soothe your senses:

• Meditate or do yoga.
• Take a hot shower.
• Listen to your favorite songs.

Relax:

• Look at the clouds.
• Read a book, magazine, or blog post.
• Take a nap.

If the tips above don't work for you, see more things you can do right now. 
 

Resources available in the United States (US) 

Crisis Text Line
Call 1 800 273 TALK (8255) or SMS: Text BRAVE to 741 741
Crisis Text Line is a free, 24/7 support helpline for those dealing with a crisis.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or SMS: 988 
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States. From any phone in the US, call or text 988.

National Alliance on Mental Illness
Call 1 800 950 6264 or SMS: Text NAMI to 741741
NAMI provides advocacy, education, support, and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives.

Active Minds
Active Minds is the nation's premier nonprofit organization supporting mental health awareness and education for young adults. Some helpful pages include, 

• Recognizing signs and symptoms of mental illness 
• Crisis information for getting immediate help
• Supporting someone in treatment
• Other referral resources
• Practicing self-care
• Offering help to someone in distress

For the rest of the world, please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention to find a crisis center in your area.

On IMVU, millions of people connect, meet old friends, make new ones, and share their stories. We are committed to creating a platform where all feel respected, safe, and welcome. 

Visit our Trust & Safety page to learn more about how we maintain a safe environment for our community's users.