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Resources​

Who should I call in a crisis if I need help now? 

National Suicide Hotline

Dial 988

The 988 Lifeline is available 24/7/365.

All conversations are free and confidential. 

Can I get free health insurance in NYS even if I am undocumented? 

Yes - many people don’t know that you can get free health insurance in New York State even if you’re undocumented. For people who are undocumented and don’t speak fluent English, are transgender, gender non-conforming, or non-binary, or are living with HIV/AIDS, the process of applying for insurance can be complicated and overwhelming.

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This guide Healthcare Is For You! includes information about:

  • how to know if you qualify for free health insurance and what it covers

  • how to apply for health insurance and get support doing it

  • the rights you have when applying for health insurance

  • the rights you have and the services you can use if you’re transgender, gender non-conforming, or non-binary

  • the services you can use if you’re living with HIV/AIDS

  • other resources immigrant New Yorkers can access even if they don’t qualify for free health insurance

Source: New York Lawyers for Public Interest , CUP, and designer Graydon Manzke

What is social security? Do I quality for assistance?

Due to discrimination, many formerly incarcerated people struggle with financial stability; this is can be compounded if they have a mental or physical health condition that prevents them from working. Social security programs, like SSI and SSDI, improve mental health and wellbeing of people with mental health needs by providing access to financial support and health care. While there are government programs that can help, the application process can be confusing. This guide Stay Steady with SSI and SSDI provides an overview of these services and how to apply.

Source: The Mental Health Project of the Urban Justice Center, CUP and designers 13 milliseconds

Where should I start with planning for my future or for an aging relative? 

Aging can make things like paying bills, keeping your government assistance, and making healthcare decisions difficult. Creating life planning documents can help you keep doing these things, even if sickness or disability make it hard. They can also make sure your belongings go where you want them to go once you’ve passed away. When you have these documents in place, you get to stay in control of your health and money. It also makes sure your wishes will be met, even if you get too sick to communicate them.  This guide Planning for the Future provides a roadmap for how to get started.

Source: The Senior Law Project , CUP and designer Clae Lu 

My provider has recommended psychiatric medication as part of my treatment. Where can I learn more about the types of medication available? 

Psychiatric medications influence the brain chemicals that regulate emotions and thought patterns. They’re usually more effective when combined with psychotherapy. In some cases, medicines can reduce symptoms so other methods of a treatment plan can be more effective. For example, a medication can ease symptoms of depression like loss of energy and lack of concentration, allowing an individual to engage more in talk therapy. This NAMI Resource Guide explains how psychiatric medications work, possible side effects, and tips for how to listen to your body when medication is part of your treatment plan. In some cases, psychiatric medication may be a short-term aid taken only for a few months. In others, medication may be long-term, or even lifelong. Some people are afraid that taking a medication will change their personality, but most find that medication allows them to take charge of their lives.

Source: The National Alliance on Mental Illness

Someone I know has been detained by ICE, what happens now? What are my rights?

All undocumented immigrants and their families have basic rights and protections in New York State regardless of their immigration status when interacting with ICE, Border Patrol, or local law enforcement. Those at risk of ICE arrest and detention face an intentionally confusing and intimidating process. Without adequate information about what can happen, people can unknowingly agree to be deported before they have a trial in immigration court. This guide Immigrants and NY  provides an overview of your rights and what you can do to keep your family safer when interacting with ICE.  during court trial. 

Source: The Immigrant Defense Project, CUP, and designer Luiza Dale

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