Free emotional support hotlines for chronic and physical illness in California

Battling to cope with your diagnosis and symptoms? Reach out to a helpline for free support in California, United States

A chronic, life-altering, or life-threatening diagnosis can come as a shock. The effects of physical illness may make it hard to maintain a positive mental, emotional and spiritual outlook. There are counselors and volunteers at 7 helplines in California, United States who you can confide in when you feel:

• That life isn’t worth living, given the limitations and pain associated with your medical condition.
• Depression about the life you've lost, things you cannot do, and places you cannot go.
• Isolated from those who don’t comprehend your discomfort or the seriousness of your condition.
• Afraid about the uncertainty of life and the pain you may feel from your symptoms.
• Fear of future physical discomfort, pain, changes to your routine, and possibly death.
• Anxiety, tension, fear, sadness and helplessness about your condition and what the future holds.
• Anger and disbelief about your diagnosis, and constantly asking yourself, “why me?”
• Stress about the financial burden that your illness will put on your family.

Depending on your illness, personality, age, lifestyle and home support system, there are a range of difficult emotions you may be feeling. Illness can be life-changing, and it is always unexpected.

Physical illness can bring emotional challenges that are hard to face without proper support. In California, United States, you can contact a helpline to speak with a counselor or volunteer who cares and understands how physical illness can impact on mental health. Asking for help does not mean that you're weak – it simply shows that you are human.