The Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line and Libraries

In this interview, we’ll hear from Eneida Anjos of the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL). Eneida shares information about this important service and offers strategies for libraries looking to prioritize mental health and wellness support for their patrons.

What is the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line?

Eneida Anjos: The Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL) is a service of the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health (DMH) as part of the Roadmap for Behavioral Health Reform. BHHL went live on January 3, 2023, offering direct connection to mental health and substance use care for anyone in the Commonwealth – no insurance needed.

This service is available 24/7, in more than 200 languages. BHHL is a phone, text, and online chat line whose clinically trained staff will work with you to determine the care that best fits your needs and directly connect you to treatment, including outpatient, urgent care, and immediate crisis care.

Common Reasons for Seeking Help Can be Immediate or Informational:

• Feeling anxious, stressed, depressed, or hopeless
• Problematic alcohol or substance use
• Engaging in reckless behavior or participating in unsafe activities
• Thinking about harming yourself or others
• Worrying about a struggling child, elderly parent, or loved one with mental health issues
• Needing help finding resources for health-related social needs (i.e. food, transportation)
• Experiencing a behavioral health crisis

How can Massachusetts residents’ access BHHL’s resources?

E.A.:

• Call or text 833-773-2445 (BHHL)
• Start a chat at masshelpline.com/chat
• Deaf or hard of hearing? If you use a TTY, contact MassRelay at 711. Otherwise, call through your video relay service at 833-773-2445.
• Access an online, searchable Behavioral Health Help Line Resource Directory at masshelpline.com/BHHLResourceDirectory

How can Massachusetts libraries promote BHHL to their patrons?

E.A.: Libraries can share information regarding BHHL or post resources somewhere people can learn about the service. All resources including posters, brochures, and wallet cards are available for free on the Behavioral Health Roadmap Toolkit. Information can also be posted on the library’s website and newsletters.

What advice do you have for libraries looking to prioritize mental health resources for their communities?

E.A.: Prioritizing mental health resources in libraries is a valuable initiative that can greatly benefit the community. As an important community hub, a library (and its librarians!) can be a great place to promote mental health and wellness. A few strategies to consider could be:

• Promote resources such as BHHL or Community Behavioral Health Centers.
• Develop a collection of books, eBooks, audiobooks, and multimedia materials on mental health topics in various languages. Ensure that these materials address a wide range of experiences and are inclusive of different cultures, ages, and identities.
• Organize events such as mental health awareness sessions, mindfulness and meditation workshops, or support groups focusing on stress management and emotional well-being.
• Utilize websites, social media, newsletters, and other digital media to raise awareness of the mental health resources and programs available, encouraging community use and engagement.

By implementing these strategies, libraries can play a pivotal role in supporting the mental health and well-being of their communities.