Resources for community members experiencing mental health crisis

Published on June 09, 2025

Starting a conversation about mental health does not need to be awkward, and it can make all the difference to someone important in your life.

The Oak Park Public Health Department encourages community members to check in with friends and loved ones, and this site has great tips and conversation starters. It can also be helpful to know the resources in our community so they can be shared in a time of need.

See below for information about local mental health resources:

• 9-1-1: For assistance in life-threatening situations where immediate physical safety or medical intervention is required, call 9-1-1. The purpose of 9-1-1 is to dispatch emergency responders — including police and firefighter/paramedics — to provide immediate assistance in a wide range of urgent situations. Its scope is broader than mental health crises, focusing on any emergency that requires physical, on-site intervention.

• The 988 Lifeline: 988 is the national hotline for people who need mental health services. You can call 988 or start a text chat at any time. To chat in English, simply text a message to 988. To chat in Spanish, text AYUDA to 988. Professionals are available to speak to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis. The 988 Lifeline is available 24/7.

• Thrive Counseling Center, located in Oak Park, offers its own free, local crisis line at 708.383.7500 extension 1. The local crisis line is open 24/7 for individuals in the community who are struggling with mental health challenges or emotional distress. While it operates similarly to 988, its localized nature makes it especially beneficial for those living in Oak Park who want continuity of care. Individuals can walk in during business hours and talk with a crisis worker as well. Business hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday.

• NAMI Drop-in Center, located at 814 Harrison St. in Oak Park, is open from 1 p.m, to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. No appointment is necessary. The Drop-in Center is not designed to respond to mental health crises. Instead, its purpose is to provide support and help people who are struggling with their mental health build skills, create solutions and socialize. These activities help participants stay out of crisis.