Call **ASK from your cell phone
or dial 1-800-939-5911.
**ASK Mental Health Crisis Line
**ASK (pronounced “star-star-ask”) is a mental health crisis and emergency hotline for the 20 counties we serve in North Carolina. This helpline connects you to get the right care, at the right time, in the right place.
Available 24/7
Talk to a licensed clinician trained in mental and behavioral health.
Deaf or hard of hearing?
Dial 711 for NC Relay.
Why call a mental health crisis line?
Just like you would dial 9-1-1 or go to the emergency room when you have an injury or are feeling very sick, **ASK is there for a mental health emergency. We will quickly connect you to North Carolina resources and help in your area. If you or a loved one is in immediate danger, always call 911 — you can ask for a Crisis Intervention Team.
What to expect when you call
If you or a loved one is in immediate danger, always call 911.
- We are here to listen and understand your immediate needs.
- We can dispatch a mobile crisis team for face-to-face counseling and services.
- We can recommend local Walk-In/Advanced Access Centers, Crisis Recovery Centers, or Comprehensive Community Clinics.
- We can work with you to schedule an appointment with a provider. These appointments can be scheduled within seven days, depending on the urgency of the situation.
What can you talk about?
Our mental health crisis line responders are trained professionals experienced with handling mental and behavioral health challenges. You can talk to us about how you are feeling, if you’re feeling suicidal or depressed, or if you’re concerned about a loved one. Be open, honest, and know that we are here to listen and help.
Is it free?
Yes, there is no cost to call **ASK. You do not need to be a member of Cardinal Innovations Healthcare.
What is Cardinal Innovations Healthcare?
Cardinal Innovations is a Medicaid managed care organization. We’re like an insurance company specifically for Medicaid recipients who have mental health, substance use disorders, and intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. We serve 20 counties in the state of North Carolina. But, you do not need to be a member of Cardinal Innovations to call our mental health crisis line and receive help.
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