Mental health organizations are the frontline for information, support, and reform. Understanding how they operate helps people access services, learn about treatment options, and advocate for better care. This explainer surveys the major players and how to connect with them.
What mental health organizations do
- Provide reliable, evidence-based information about conditions, treatments, and self-help strategies.
- Fund and disseminate research that advances understanding and improves care.
- Operate helplines, crisis supports, and referral networks to connect people with appropriate services.
- Advocate for policy changes, funding, and stigma reduction at local, national, and international levels.
- Establish guidelines, training standards, and professional resources for clinicians and caregivers.
- Host education campaigns, community programs, and peer support networks that empower individuals and families.
Global organizations
World Health Organization (WHO)
As the United Nations’ health agency, WHO sets global mental health priorities, develops guidance for governments and providers, and coordinates international responses to crises. Its Mental Health Action Plan outlines strategies to integrate mental health into primary care, reduce stigma, and improve access to evidence-based treatments worldwide.
Learn more at: World Health Organization.
International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP)
IASP connects researchers, clinicians, and advocates to share best practices for suicide prevention, postvention, and crisis response across cultures and systems. It provides resources for communities seeking to build safer environments and respond with care.
Explore resources at: IASP.
United States organizations
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
NIMH is the primary federal funder of mental health research in the United States. Beyond grant support, it offers up-to-date information on disorders, treatment options, clinical trials, and ways families can access care. It also tracks trends in prevalence and disparities to guide policy and practice.
Visit: NIMH.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
NAMI is a grassroots advocacy and education organization serving individuals and families affected by mental illness. It runs hotlines, support groups, educational programs, and policy campaigns designed to reduce stigma and improve access to care.
Find support and resources at: NAMI.
Mental Health America (MHA)
MHA focuses on prevention, early intervention, and screening. It operates online tools to help people assess mental health risks, locate services, and stay informed about evolving treatments and rights as patients and caregivers.
Access screening and resources at: Mental Health America.
UK and Europe-based organizations
Mind (UK)
Mind is a leading mental health charity that provides information, support, and campaigns to improve services and reduce stigma. It offers helplines, guidance for families, and resources for educators and employers seeking mental health-friendly practices.
Discover resources at: Mind.
Samaritans (UK and Ireland)
Samaritans runs 24/7 confidential emotional support by phone, email, and in-person branches across the UK and Ireland. It serves anyone in distress, providing a nonjudgmental space to talk through difficult moments and plan next steps.
Access support at: Samaritans.
SANE
SANE focuses on the lived experience of people with mental illness, offering helplines, online forums, and professional guidance aimed at reducing isolation and improving treatment outcomes. It emphasizes compassionate care and evidence-based approaches to crises and long-term management.
Learn more at: SANE.
Royal College of Psychiatrists (UK)
The Royal College of Psychiatrists represents mental health professionals in the UK, setting standards for education, training, and clinical practice. It publishes guidelines, conducts professional development, and provides resources to improve patient care and safety across services.
Professional resources are at: RC Psych.
European Psychiatric Association (EPA)
The EPA supports psychiatrists and mental health professionals across Europe by promoting research collaboration, education, and high-quality clinical care. It serves as a platform for sharing best practices and influencing policy at the continental level.
Explore the EPA at: EPA.
Canada
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)
Canada’s largest mental health and addiction teaching hospital, CAMH conducts cutting-edge research, provides clinical services, and develops public education resources to improve understanding and treatment across the country.
Visit CAMH at: CAMH.
How to engage with these organizations
- Use reputable organizations as starting points for information, diagnoses, and treatment options rather than anecdotal sources.
- Join education or advocacy programs to stay informed and contribute to policy improvements in your community.
- Volunteer with local branches or helplines to support others while learning about services and referral pathways.
- Follow credible campaigns on stigma reduction, workplace mental health, and school-based programs to foster healthier environments.
- Consult multiple sources to compare guidelines, treatment options, and access barriers in your region.
- Keep crisis resources handy and know how to reach professional help quickly when needed.
Crisis resources and urgent support
- Samaritans (UK and Ireland): 24/7 confidential support — Samaritans
- Crisis Text Line (US and other regions): text-based support — Crisis Text Line
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (US) and related resources — Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- For immediate international guidance, WHO offers crisis response information and referrals through its channels — WHO
