At 28-years-old, Carter began struggling with suicidal thoughts. “At first, I tried to ignore them, but when they didn’t fade, I searched online for help. When I read Danny’s story, I knew that I had to stop pretending everything was fine. My best friend noticed something was going on even when I always said I was fine. When I finally opened up, it was the start of my healing.”
Honest conversations are so important for recovery. For Carter, starting these conversations helped him find more resources.
Healthy Minds Philly offers online screenings and connections to local services designed to support Philadelphians regardless of insurance or income. The chat line connects individuals with peer specialists – real people ready to listen and help find appropriate resources. You can also call CBH Member Services to identify a provider to help you. There’s also a walk-in clinic at 3125 N. Broad Street where you can get help right away.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (now the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) is available 24/7 if you or someone you care about needs to talk. Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741) lets you connect via text if talking feels too hard.
For those grieving a loss, there are free, confidential support groups facilitated by people who truly understand mental health challenges and grief. These spaces help people connect and heal.
Suicide prevention is about hope, action, and connection – for Carter and for you.
If you’re reading this and feeling alone, remember, there are people and programs ready to help through Healthy Minds Philly and 988, and daily in the stories we share and the conversations we start.
