If you're in crisis right now, you don't have to navigate this alone. Here are resources that can help — including options that understand South Asian cultural context.
If you're in immediate danger, call 911.
Crisis Lines
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (US)
Call or text 988. Available 24/7. Free and confidential.
Website: 988lifeline.org
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741. Available 24/7 in the US, UK, Canada, and Ireland.
The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ youth)
Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678.
For South Asian LGBTQ+ youth navigating both identity and family dynamics.
iCall (India)
+91-9152987821 | Available Monday–Saturday, 8am–10pm IST
Psychosocial support from trained professionals, with sensitivity to South Asian contexts.
Vandrevala Foundation (India)
1860-2662-345 | Available 24/7
South Asian Specific Support
SAMHIN (South Asian Mental Health Initiative & Network)
samhin.org — Community education and connection to culturally competent providers.
Desi Rainbow (LGBTQ+ South Asians)
desirainbow.org — For LGBTQ+ South Asians and their families.
ASHA for Women (Domestic Violence)
1-888-889-ASHA (2742) | For South Asian survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and forced marriage.
Narika (Bay Area)
1-800-215-7308 | South Asian domestic violence support.
Finding a Culturally Competent Therapist
These directories can help you find therapists who understand South Asian cultural context:
When calling a therapist to inquire, it's okay to ask: "Do you have experience working with South Asian clients?" or "Are you familiar with family dynamics in collectivist cultures?" A good therapist will welcome the question.
If You Can't Afford Therapy
You Are Not Alone
Mental health struggles in the South Asian community are deeply underreported — because of stigma, because of the model minority myth, because we were taught to handle things quietly.
But struggling doesn't make you weak. It makes you human. And asking for help is one of the most courageous things you can do.
We're glad you're here.