Crisis Resources

Immediate mental health crisis resources — 988, Veterans Crisis Line, and Crisis Text Line.

Immediate Crisis Resources

If you or someone you know is in crisis, these services are available 24/7:

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 — free, confidential, 24/7 support for people in distress.
  • Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 then press 1, or text 838255. Confidential support for veterans and service members.
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 — free crisis counseling via text message.
  • Fireside Project: Call (623) 232-9607 — psychedelic peer support during and after experiences. Not a crisis line, but available for integration support.

Understanding Psychedelic Crises

A psychedelic crisis (sometimes called a "bad trip" or "challenging experience") can include intense anxiety, paranoia, confusion, or feelings of losing control. These experiences are temporary but can be extremely distressing in the moment.

If you're currently in a difficult experience:

  • Change your setting: Move to a quieter, more comfortable space. Dim the lights. Play calming music.
  • Remember: this will pass. Psychedelic effects are time-limited. Remind yourself that what you're feeling is temporary.
  • Talk to someone. Call the Fireside Project at (623) 232-9607 for psychedelic peer support. They're trained to help people through difficult experiences.
  • Don't be alone if possible. If you have a trusted friend or trip sitter, tell them what you're feeling.
  • Focus on breathing. Slow, deep breaths can help reduce overwhelming anxiety.

If you're concerned about someone else:

  • Stay calm and reassuring. Your calm presence is the most helpful thing you can offer.
  • Move them to a safe, quiet environment if possible.
  • Remind them that what they're experiencing is temporary.
  • If they're in physical danger or experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
  • Call 988 if you believe they may be at risk of self-harm.

Harm Reduction Resources

  • DanceSafe: Drug checking services and harm reduction education — dancesafe.org
  • Erowid: Comprehensive psychedelic substance information — erowid.org
  • Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS): Research and education — maps.org

Integration Support

After a difficult psychedelic experience, integration — making sense of what happened and incorporating insights — is important. These resources can help:

Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. These services exist because difficult experiences are common and manageable with the right support.