Here’s what you can do if you or someone you love needs help.

If you or someone you know talks about suicide, harms themselves, has a mental health crisis, or has a drug or alcohol problem, you can get help right away.

You can:

  • Call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
  • Chat online at 988lifeline.org/chat
  • Text 988 to 988
  • For Spanish, call 1(800) 628-9454
  • For TTY users, dial 711 then 988

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is free and private. A trained crisis worker will give you support and share resources that may help. You can get help 24 hours a day. You do not have to be suicidal to call for help. You can also call to talk about:

  • Depression, mental illness, or feeling alone
  • Feeling worried about money
  • Relationships
  • Sexual orientation or gender identity

If you are a San Francisco Health Plan (SFHP) member, SFHP will cover the cost of care from calling 988. You can also get mental health care from any crisis center or mobile unit even if they are not in SFHP’s network.

Ways to Help a Friend in Trouble:

  • Think about your safety. If you feel safe, stay with the person, or ask someone you trust to stay with them, until help comes.
  • Talk to them. Tell them that you don’t want them to die or harm other people.
  • Show compassion. Don’t argue with the person or deny their feelings. Arguing may only increase their feeling of being out of control of their life.

Mental Health Issues Can be Treated

Talk with your primary care provider* (PCP) if you are having trouble with your feelings or stress. Most people get better with treatment. You can also plan an in-person or virtual visit with our partner Carelon Behavioral Health by calling 1(855) 371-8117.

For 24/7 care, you can call the SFHP Nurse Advice Line at 1(877) 977-3397. Or visit sfhp.org/teladoc to talk to a doctor 24/7 by phone or video. Visit our Mental Health Services page to learn more.

*Your primary care provider (PCP) is the doctor, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner in charge of your health care.

Minor Consent Services

If you are under 18 years old, you can receive some services without a parent or guardian’s permission. These services are called minor consent services.

If you are a minor, you can get mental health services from an SFHP provider without a referral or prior authorization. This does not include specialty mental health services for needs that are more serious. Learn more with your SFHP Member Handbook.

More Help from SFHP

  • Customer Service: Our team can answer your questions about benefits and health services. Call 1(415) 547-7800, 1(800) 288-5555 (toll-free) or 1(415) 547-7830 TTY. Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm.
  • Interpreter Services: You can get an interpreter in-person or by phone for your health visits. When you make an appointment, ask for an interpreter at the same time.
  • Need a Ride? SFHP can help you get transportation to any medical appointment covered by Medi-Cal. Ask your provider or call Customer Service.
  • Interested in Medi-Cal Benefits? See if you or your family can get Medi-Cal through SFHP.

Learn more about your covered Medi-Cal benefits and services.