Get help

Support for caregivers

We're building our Fast Track program right now: a way for family caregivers in Western New York and Rochester to see a licensed counselor within days, at low to no cost.

Until it opens, you don't have to wait. These organizations offer support today, many of them free. We don't run them, and their programs can change, so check each one's site for what's available where you live.

In a crisis

• 988 Suicide and Crisis LifelineCall or text 988, or chat online, any time, day or night. Free and confidential.
• Crisis Text LineText HOME to 741741 to reach a trained crisis counselor, any time.
• Crisis Services (Buffalo)Erie County's 24-hour crisis center: a live person to talk to, day or night.

Free support for cancer caregivers

• CancerCareFree counseling with oncology social workers by phone and online, and support groups for caregivers.
• Cancer Support CommunityFree support, a helpline and resources for family and friends facing cancer.
• Ovarian Cancer Research AllianceFree weekly online support sessions for people with gynecologic cancers and their caregivers.

For any caregiver

• Family Caregiver AllianceInformation, resources and links to caregiver support groups.
• Well Spouse AssociationPeer support groups, mentors and respite weekends for people caring for an ill spouse or partner.
• NY ConnectsNew York State's free directory for caregiver support, respite and local programs.
• Hospice & Palliative Care BuffaloSupport for families facing serious illness in Western New York, including grief support.
• Erie County caregiver resourcesThe Erie County Caregiver Coalition's local agencies and programs.
• 211 Life LineDial 211 to find local help in the Rochester and Finger Lakes region.

Finding a counselor

• Open Path CollectiveA network of therapists who offer lower-cost sessions after a one-time membership.
• NAMIThe National Alliance on Mental Illness: a HelpLine, support groups and guides to finding care.
• Mental Health America screening toolsFree, anonymous screenings for depression, anxiety and more, with next steps. A few minutes, and it isn't a diagnosis.
• FindTreatment.govThe U.S. government's finder for mental health care near you, by location and insurance.

After a loss

• The Dougy CenterSupport and resources for grieving children, teens and families.
• Hospice Foundation of AmericaGrief and end-of-life resources for families.

Taking care of yourself

• HelpGuidePractical guides to managing stress and caring for your own mental health.
• Insight TimerA free meditation app with short guided sessions for stress and sleep.

Stories and community

• UNCrushedReal stories about mental health and recovery, a podcast, and a community that talks about it openly.

Stay in touch

Want to know when Fast Track opens? Send us a note with your name and how to reach you. Please don't include medical details.

Fluttering Wings doesn't provide medical or mental health care, and this list isn't medical advice. It's a starting place.