Tips for Finding Reliable Mental Health Websites

The internet is great because it gives so many of us a platform to share powerful and important information, but it’s also a space where misleading—and sometimes straight-up untrue—information is spread. So how do you know what mental health sites are reliable?

If you’re looking for reliable, science-backed info on mental health, the list below highlights trustworthy government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other online resources you can lean on for your own learning, to get connected with support, or to help with research.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is a government institution that studies mental health conditions. Check out the Health Topics section of the NIMH website for basic information on a wide range of mental health topics, including conditions, treatments, therapies, and more.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is another government agency dedicated to improving Americans’ behavioral health. The agency focuses on mental health, substance misuse, and recovery. SAMHSA has a free treatment finder and a 24/7 helpline that can help you find mental health or substance misuse treatment.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) conducts research and shares information about drug use and addiction. The website has a special section for young adults that can connect you with useful information on marijuana, vaping, and more.

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) is a government agency that supports research and educates the public about alcohol use. Visit the institute’s site for a helpful glossary of terms related to drinking and alcohol misuse and information on getting treatment.

Mental Health America (MHA) is a nationwide nonprofit dedicated to promoting the overall mental health of Americans. MHA is a great place to be connected to a warmline—a phone number you can call just to talk about your mental health or get support—mental health screening tools, and resources on how to find help for yourself or help someone else in your life.

The Trevor Project is a nonprofit that supports the mental health of LGBTQIA+ teens and youth. They offer a 24/7 help line and an online community to connect with other LGBTQIA+ youth.

The Steve Fund is a nonprofit organization that promotes the mental health and well-being of young people of color. The fund’s website has a number of resources on mental health, including a youth healing space and resources for students attending HBCUs.

The Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) is supported by SAMHSA and works to advance suicide-prevention strategies. Visit their online library for tools, fact sheets, and more resources related to suicide prevention and safety plans. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the public health agency of the United States, has dedicated a section of its website to teen mental health. It offers resources on coping with stress, staying connected with others, and more.

The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) is the largest U.S. nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals affected by eating disorders. The NEDA blog features useful tips on managing eating disorder recovery, and their treatment tool can help you find NEDA resources in your area. 

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a nonprofit dedicated to reducing stigma and providing resources about mental illness. It has lots of excellent information and resources for young adults about how to live with a mental health condition, learn more about insurance, and manage symptoms in college.

Psychology Today, an online mental health publication, offers a therapist directory that can connect you with mental health practitioners in your area.