Mental Health Care by State (2026)
Where you live changes what mental-health care is free or covered. This navigator explains each state's Medicaid expansion status, the federal parity law that applies everywhere, and the free or low-cost options available to you.
Photo: Amelia Lowell / Unsplash
You are not alone. These free, confidential services are staffed by trained counselors 24/7. If you are thinking about harming yourself, reach out now.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineCall or text 988 (US, 24/7)
- Crisis Text LineText HOME to 741741 (US)
- SAMHSA National Helpline1-800-662-4357 (US)
- World Health Organization (WHO)Global mental-health resources
Moodfig is an educational self-tracking tool, not a substitute for professional care. See Mental Health Help (US) for licensed-provider directories and authority sources (NIMH, SAMHSA, APA, WHO).
How mental-health coverage works in the U.S.
Federal parity (applies in every state)
The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) requires most group and individual health plans that cover mental health to cover it on equal terms with physical health—same deductibles, same visit limits, same prior-authorization rules. Strengthened by 2024 final rules effective for plan years beginning on or after Jan. 1, 2025 (individual market Jan. 1, 2026).
Medicaid expansion (varies by state)
41 states plus D.C. have expanded Medicaid, covering most adults up to 138% of the federal poverty level. 10 states have not adopted the expansion, leaving many low-income adults without coverage—though Georgia and Wisconsin cover some adults through a waiver or state plan.
Free help is always available
988 (call or text, 24/7), the Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741), SAMHSA’s National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP), 211 for local services, and sliding-scale community health centers are available in every state.
Browse your state
Select your state for its Medicaid expansion status, parity notes, and free or low-cost care options.
Free & low-cost options in every state
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 (free, confidential, 24/7). For Spanish, press 2 or text AYUDA. The previous 1-800-273-TALK number still routes to 988.
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor, 24/7.
SAMHSA National Helpline
Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for free, confidential treatment referrals and information, 24/7.
211 & community health centers
Dial 211 for local services. Community health centers (findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov) serve patients on a sliding fee scale, with or without insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my state have to cover mental health care?
The federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) requires most group health plans and individual-market plans that cover mental health to cover it at parity with physical health—in every state. Some states add stronger protections. If your plan will not, contact your state insurance department.
What does "Medicaid expansion" mean for mental health care?
In the 41 states (plus D.C.) that adopted the ACA Medicaid expansion, most adults with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level qualify for Medicaid, which covers behavioral health. In the 10 states that have not expanded, many low-income adults have no coverage—though Georgia and Wisconsin cover some adults through a waiver or state plan.
Where can I get free help right now?
In the U.S., call or text 988 for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (free, confidential, 24/7). Text HOME to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line. For non-crisis help, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP, dial 211 for local services, or use a community health center (sliding-scale).
Are these pages a substitute for professional care?
No. This navigator explains access and rights; it is educational, not medical or legal advice. For diagnosis or treatment, contact a licensed clinician or your state’s mental health authority.
Data sources & methodology
- KFF — Status of State Action on the Medicaid Expansion DecisionState Medicaid expansion adoption as of May 2026 (41 states + D.C. adopted; 10 have not). kff.org/health-reform/state-indicator/state-decisions-for-creating-health-insurance-exchanges-and-expanding-Medicaid.
- CMS — Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA)Federal parity requirements for group and individual health plans that cover mental health and substance-use disorder benefits. cms.gov/marketplace/private-health-insurance/mental-health-parity-addiction-equity.
- SAMHSA — 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline & National Helpline988 (call/text, 24/7, free, confidential) and the SAMHSA National Helpline 1-800-662-HELP. samhsa.gov.
- HRSA — Find a Health CenterLocator for community health centers that serve patients on a sliding fee scale regardless of insurance. findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.
Methodology and citations are maintained by the Moodfig editorial team. Where an official schedule is not yet loaded, results are shown as model estimates and the source is stated as a reference.