Resources

Peer-led community support for recovery from alcohol use. The groups below serve South Asian communities in English, Gujarati, Hindi, Punjabi, and Nepali — available virtually and some in person.

Learn about AA in the video: What is AA? (Hindi) — Watch AA video on YouTube
अल्कोहलिक्स एनॉनिमस क्या है?
The video provides an overview in Hindi language of the Alcoholics Anonymous program, including its purpose and how it uses peer support to help people with drinking problems.

Virtual AA Meetings

Global Gratitude Group AA (formerly South Asian AA)
Global Gratitude Group AA meeting information

AA Mangalore Online Group Hindi – Virtual
Daily 9:00 PM – 10:15 PM (IST)
In the U.S. the time will vary based on the time of year. Check when daylight savings time goes into effect: Fall and Winter: 10:30 AM ET | Spring and Summer: 11:30 AM ET
Join Mangalore meeting | Find your local number
Meeting ID: 7570178064 | Passcode: 123456

Navjeevan Group India-Daily Meeting in Hindi
Daily 8:30 PM – 10:00 PM (IST)
Join Navjeevan Group meeting
Bhavesh B: +91 8469137779 | Rahul D: +91 8975649926

Nepali Language AA Meetings
Fridays 8:15 PM – 9:30 PM ET
Join Nepali meeting
Meeting ID: 8366539470 | Passcode: 12345
aaintergroupnp2022@gmail.com

Punjabi Worldwide AA Meeting
Saturdays 9:00 PM IST | 11:30 AM–1:00 PM ET | 8:30–10:00 AM PT
ਵਿਸ਼ਵ ਪੰਜਾਬੀ aa ਮੀਟਿੰਗ
Join Punjabi meeting
Meeting ID: 848 9857 6044 | Passcode: 121212

 

In-Person AA Meetings

Desi’s In Recovery Palo Alto AA Meeting – Palo Alto, CA
Saturdays 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM PT
670 E Meadow Dr, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Desi’s In Recovery Palo Alto AA Meeting
Serge: 707-347-6650 (English, Punjabi, Hindi,Marathi)
Saquib: 650-274-8745 (English, Urdu, Punjabi)
Vinayak: 503-807-0171 (English, Marathi, Hindi)

ADHD often goes unrecognized in South Asian communities. The books below offer practical, evidence-based strategies for adults and children. You might find other helpful books online as well.

Suggested ADHD Books

ADD-Friendly Ways to Organize Your Life by Judith Kolberg & Kathleen Nadeau provides actionable strategies and organizational systems specifically designed for adults with ADHD to manage clutter, tasks, and time more effectively.

More Attention, Less Deficit: Success Strategies for Adults with ADHD by Ari Tuckman offers a comprehensive overview of ADHD and practical, strengths-based strategies to enhance attention, productivity, and quality of life for adults with the condition.

Taking Charge of Adult ADHD by Russell Barkley provides guidance for understanding, managing, and treating adult ADHD, including medication, behavioral strategies, practical advice and resources.

The Disorganized Mind by Nancy Ratey presents coaching methods and tools to help adults with ADHD develop personalized strategies for improving organization, productivity, and self-management.

The Mindfulness Prescription for Adult ADHD by Lidia Zylowska offers practical mindfulness techniques tailored to help adults with ADHD improve attention, emotional regulation, and daily functioning.

Resources to help families navigate diagnosis, education, and advocacy — including organizations serving South Asian and diverse communities.

American Psychiatric Association Autism Spectrum Disorder Information
A professional medical organization that provides clear, research-based information on autism for patients, families, and caregivers.

Autism New Jersey
500 Horizon Drive, Suite 530, Robbinsville, NJ 08691 | 800-4-autism (800-428-8476)
A nonprofit organization that provides statewide support, referrals, advocacy, and resources to individuals with autism and their families in New Jersey.

Autism Society Habilitation Organization (ASHO)
72-11 Roosevelt Avenue, Jackson Heights, NY 11372 | 347-873-9962
A nonprofit organization serving Bangladeshi-American families by providing autism support, education, advocacy, and culturally responsive resources.

Autism Speaks
1-888-288-4762
A nonprofit organization that funds autism research, provides resources and support for families, and promotes awareness and advocacy for individuals with autism.

Autism Society San Francisco Bay Area
An all-volunteer, grassroots organization that supports individuals with autism and families in the Bay Area by offering support groups, community events, advocacy, and resource navigation.

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics
215-590-7500
A multidisciplinary pediatric specialty division that provides evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for children with autism and other developmental and behavioral conditions.

Early Intervention Program – U.S Department of Education
A federal program that ensures states provide free appropriate public education, special education services, and early intervention support for children with disabilities from birth through age 21.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
A federal law and official resource site explaining the rights to free appropriate public education, early intervention, and special education services for infants, children, and youth with disabilities.

POAC Autism Services
1989 Route 88, Brick, NJ 08724 | 732-785-1099
A New Jersey nonprofit that provides autism support, family recreation events, advocacy, and specialized training for parents, educators, and first responders.

SAAAC Autism Centre
705 Progress Ave #63, Scarborough, ON M1H 2X1, Canada | 416-289-0100
A culturally responsive autism center that provides evidence-based programs and support for diverse families and caregivers.

Statewide Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN) Advocacy
570 Broad Street, Suite 702, Newark, NJ 07102 | 800-654-SPAN (7726)
A New Jersey-based nonprofit that empowers families through advocacy, training, and support to navigate special education, healthcare, and disability services systems.

SCOPE (SKN Foundation)
908-333-4435
The world of special needs is very complicated and often isolating. The SKN SCOPE National helpline provides support, resource navigation, and guidance to South Asian families with children with disabilities.

 

Articles & Guides (PDF Downloads)

Autism Speaks School Community Toolkit [PDF]
A comprehensive guide that helps schools support students with autism through strategies, staff training, and tools to promote inclusion and academic success.

Navigating Through the Maze – A Guide for Parents [PDF]
A New Jersey-focused guide that helps parents understand services, resources, and support systems available for individuals with developmental disabilities.

The Enigma of Autism [PDF]
An educational article that explores the complexity of autism, including its characteristics, misconceptions, and the challenges of understanding and diagnosis.

Support for individuals with dementia and their caregivers, with a focus on New Jersey resources.

Organizations & Programs

Alzheimer’s Association
National and local alzheimer’s resources.

Care2Caregivers
800-424-2494
Free and confidential counseling, education, support, referrals and resources for caregivers of individuals with memory loss.

COPSA — Comprehensive Services on Aging
Rutgers, NJ | 800-969-5300
Specialized dementia evaluation for NJ residents with memory loss and support and referrals for their families; obtain neurological consult before initial visit.

South Asian Dementia Caregiver Support Group
Second Wednesday each month on Zoom: 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM ET
Join South Asian Dementia Caregiver Support Group Meeting
For more information contact Anju: anjusanjeev2013@gmail.com or 732-543-4287

Trualta Free Caregiver Training
Middlesex County, NJ
Free online caregiver training and support.

Depression is common and treatable. These resources help individuals and families recognize signs and find a path toward support.

American Psychiatric Association Resource on Depression

MedlinelinePlus Resource on Depression

 

Articles (PDF Downloads)

Are you Depressed? [PDF]
This is an article about recognizing symptoms and understanding risk factors. Seeking timely intervention is crucial, as untreated depression can lead to significant distress, disability, and increased risk of suicide.

Postpartum Depression: When a New Mother Loses her Smile [PDF]
Timely screening, recognition, and evidence-based treatment of postpartum depression are essential to protect the health of mothers and infants; stigma and lack of awareness must not prevent women from seeking care.

South Asian survivors often face unique challenges including cultural pressure, immigration concerns, and language barriers. Confidential, multilingual support is available.

National Hotlines

Anti-Violence Project (LGBTQ+) | 250-721-8080
A nonprofit organization that supports LGBTQ+ and HIV-affected communities through crisis intervention, counseling, and advocacy against violence.

National Domestic Violence Hotline | 800-799-7233
A 24/7 confidential support service that provides crisis intervention, safety planning, and referrals for individuals experiencing domestic violence.

Sikh Family Center | 866-732-7392 | contact@sikhfamilycenter.org
Promotes healthy families and youth through community education, advocacy, and direct support for Sikh and South Asians in North America.

Tahirih Justice Center | 571-282-6161 |
justice@tahirih.org
Protects immigrant women and girls fleeing gender-based violence through free legal services and advocacy.

Local Resources by State

Domestic Violence Agencies for South Asians – List of agencies in each state.

California

Asian Americans for Community Involvement (AACI) | 408-975-2730 | info@aaci.org
San Jose
Improves health and wellness through behavioral health care, domestic violence shelters, and health services.

License to Freedom | 619-401-2800 | admin@licensetofreedom.org
El Cajon
Empowers refugees and immigrants suffering from domestic violence through legal aid, counseling, and social services.

Maitri | 888-862-4874
A nonprofit organization providing culturally specific support services, including crisis intervention and counseling, for South Asian survivors of domestic violence.

Narika | 510-444-6068 | narika@narika.org
Fremont
Helps South Asian survivors of domestic violence achieve independence through advocacy, support groups, and job training.

North American Islamic Shelter for the Abused | 888-275-6472 | info@asknisa.org
Palo Alto
Provides transitional housing, counseling, and support services to women and children experiencing domestic abuse.

South Asian Helpline and Referral Agency (SAHARA) | 562-402-4132 | info@saharacares.org
Artesia
Serves the South Asian community with crisis intervention, emergency shelter, counseling, and elder care assistance.

Connecticut

Sneha, Inc. | 860-537-0795 | sneha@sneha.org
West Hartford
Supports South Asian women and children experiencing domestic abuse with confidential assistance and advocacy.

Florida
HFSS – Hindu Family Support Services
Tampa Bay
HFSS provides culturally sensitive, faith-based support to survivors of gender-based violence in the South Asian diaspora.

Georgia

Raksha
A nonprofit organization serving the South Asian community with culturally competent support for domestic violence, mental health, and immigration-related issues.

Massachusetts

Asian Task Force Against Domestic Violence (ATASK) | 617-338-2350 | info@atask.org
Boston, Lowell
Provides multilingual emergency shelter, legal advocacy, and crisis support for Asian survivors of domestic violence.

Saheli | 866-472-4354
A South Asian women’s organization providing multilingual support, advocacy, and resources for survivors of domestic violence.

Minnesota
Asian Women United of Minnesota (AWUM) | 612-724-0756
Minneapolis
Operates emergency shelter and advocacy programs to end domestic violence against Asian women and families.

New Jersey

Manavi | 732-435-1414
An organization supporting South Asian survivors of violence through culturally specific counseling, advocacy, and education.

Morristown Agency for Domestic Violence (JBWS) | 877-782-2873
A domestic violence support program offering emergency shelter, counseling, and crisis intervention services.

NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence
A statewide coalition that supports domestic violence prevention, advocacy, and resources for survivors and service providers in New Jersey.

NJ Domestic Violence Programs by County
A directory of New Jersey domestic violence service providers offering shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and crisis support.

Wafa House | ​800-930-9232
A nonprofit providing counseling, legal advocacy, and social services for survivors of domestic violence, especially in immigrant communities.

Women Rising | 201-333-5700
270 Fairmount Ave. Jersey City, NJ 07306
A nonprofit that provides shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and supportive services for survivors of domestic violence.

New York

DHF NY South Asian Women
An organization providing community-based support, advocacy, and services for South Asian survivors of domestic violence.

Jahajee | 347-201-4931 | hello@jahajee.org
Queens
An Indo-Caribbean movement building organization that fights gender-based violence and advocates for social justice.

Project Hajra | 218-340-6396 | projecthajra@gmail.com
Queens
Organizes community safety, violence intervention, and support networks for Muslim and Arab women and families.

SAATHI | 585-234-1050 | saathi_rochester@yahoo.com
Rochester
Assists South Asian individuals and families in Rochester facing domestic violence with confidential crisis intervention.

SAKHI for South Asian Women | 212-868-6741
Offers culturally specific support, counseling, legal advocacy, and crisis services for South Asian survivors of violence.

Sanctuary for Families | 212-349-6009 | info@sffny.org
New York City
Delivers legal, clinical, shelter, and economic empowerment services to survivors of domestic violence and trafficking.

Sapna NYC | 718-828-9772 | info@sapnanyc.org
New York City
Transforms the lives of South Asian immigrant women through health, empowerment, and English literacy programs.

South Asian Women Project | 646-893-9938 | southasianwomenproject@gmail.com
New York City
Provides advocacy, outreach, and resources to support South Asian women impacted by domestic and gender-based violence.

South Queens Women’s March | southqueenswomensmarch@gmail.com
New York City
Fosters community action to address gender-based violence, food insecurity, and health disparities in South Queens.

Women for Afghan Women | 718-591-2434
71-19 162nd St, Unit CF-D
Fresh Meadows, NY 11365
A nonprofit serving Afghan women and families with legal advocacy, shelter, and social services.

Womankind (formerly New York Asian Women’s Center) | 212-732-0054 | info@iamwk.org
New York City
Works with survivors of gender-based violence to rise above trauma through helpline, counseling, and shelter services.

Ohio

Asha Ray of Hope | 614-326-2121 | asharayofhope@sbcglobal.net
Columbus
Provides culturally sensitive services and resources to South Asian domestic violence survivors in Ohio.

Texas

An-Nisa | 832-324-9111 | info@annisa.org
Houston
Provides culturally sensitive support services, education, and crisis intervention to Muslim families and individuals.

Asians Against Domestic Abuse (AADA) | 713-974-3743 |
info@aadainc.org
Houston
Supports Asian victims of domestic violence with culturally appropriate resources, shelter, and legal guidance.

Asian Family Support Services of Austin (AFSSA) |
512-358-6318 | info@afssaustin.org
Austin
Provides assistance, advocacy, and education to Asian survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and trafficking.

Awaaz | 210-446-6464 | awaaz.sa@gmail.com
San Antonio
Empowers South Asian survivors of domestic violence through confidential support services, resources, and community outreach.

CHETNA | 972-423-1803 | chetna@chetna-dfw.org
Dallas
Helps South Asian victims of domestic violence break the cycle of abuse through support, advocacy, and empowerment.

Color Me Safe | 469-894-9626 | contact@colormesafe.net
Dallas
Offers culturally responsive intervention and assistance to individuals impacted by domestic violence and abuse.

Daya | 713-981-7645
A nonprofit organization providing culturally specific support services, including crisis intervention, counseling, and legal advocacy for South Asian survivors of domestic violence.

Mosaic Family Services | 214-821-5393 | home@mosaicservices.org
Dallas
Provides comprehensive care, shelter, and legal assistance for refugees and victims of human trafficking and domestic violence.

Texas Muslim Women’s Foundation | 469-467-6241 | tmwf@tmwf.org
Dallas
Empowers women and families through victim assistance, social services, educational programs, and youth development.

Articles & Video

Domestic Violence: Episode 1 — Prevalence and Impact [YouTube]
A psychological overview explaining why individuals feel trapped in unhealthy relationships, highlighting the roles of fear, past experiences, and difficulty asserting one’s needs.

Domestic Violence — When You Feel Trapped [PDF]
An educational guide explaining that domestic violence includes emotional, psychological, and economic abuse, emphasizing patterns of control and the hidden nature of abuse in relationships.

Grief is deeply personal. These resources offer guidance across cultural and spiritual traditions, along with practical support for families.

SAMHIN Grief Support Groups

Janani: Suicide Loss Survivor Support Group – Virtual
A free peer support group for individuals who have lost a loved one to suicide, facilitated by trained facilitators.

Sahara Grief Support Group – Virtual
A virtual South Asian grief support group offering a confidential, nonjudgmental space to share, reflect, and receive support from trained facilitators.

Grief Support Organizations

Comfort Zone Camp
A nonprofit organization offering free bereavement camps and programs for children and young adults who have experienced the death of a loved one.

Common Ground Grief Center
67 Taylor Ave, Manasquan, NJ 08736 | 732-606-7477
Provides grief support for children, teens, and families coping with the death of a loved one.

Good Grief
908-522-1999
Provides free, ongoing support for children, teens, young adults, and families after the death of a parent, sibling, or caregiver.

GriefShare
800-395-5755
A national network that helps individuals find local or online grief recovery support groups after the loss of a loved one.

Grief Speaks: Suicide Survivors Support Groups
Provides listings of suicide loss survivor support groups in New Jersey and New York, along with additional bereavement resources.

H.O.P.E. Helping Other People Evolve, Inc.
856-234-2200
Provides grief support groups specifically for individuals who have lost a spouse or partner, with both in-person and virtual options.

Imagine, A Center for Coping with Loss
244 Sheffield Street, Mountainside, NJ 07092 | 908-264-3100
Offers free peer grief support for children, young adults, and families coping with loss or life-altering illness.

Stephy’s Place
210 West Front Street, Suite 209, Red Bank, NJ 07701 | 732-797-9739
A free grief and loss support center offering groups and compassionate peer support for individuals navigating bereavement.

Survivors of Suicide Loss Support Group
4 Madison Ave, Madison, NJ 07940 | 908-605-0325
A free support group for individuals grieving the loss of a loved one to suicide, based in Madison, NJ.

Articles (PDF Downloads) & Video

Coping with Death: A Spiritual Perspective – video interview of Sri Dhira Chaitanya, also known as Dr. Sundar Ramaswamy, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and a teacher of Vedanta and Sanskrit language.

Books

The Surrender Experiment: My Journey into Life’s Perfection — Michael A. Singer (2015)

Bereavement and Final Samskara in Hindu Tradition – free e-Book
By Sri Dhira Chaitanya, also known as Dr. Sundar Ramaswamy, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and a teacher of Vedanta and Sanskrit language. This book deals with the relevance of religious ceremonies connected to death and morning in Hindu Tradition. The book discusses about Hindu traditions over the ages of following certain prayerful religious practices as well as varieties of psychological means to assimilate the reality of death in our lives.

HIV remains surrounded by stigma in many communities. These resources foster awareness, reduce stigma, and connect individuals with care.

Organizations & Hotlines

Buddies of New Jersey support groups in Essex and Bergen counties
201 – 489 – 2900
Buddies of NJ is a community-based organization that provides an array of services to people at-risk or living with HIV. They focus their efforts in Bergen and Passaic counties.

Hyacinth AIDS Foundation
732 – 246 – 0204
Hyacinth Foundation is a community-based organization, with 8 offices all over New Jersey, that provides an array of services to people at-risk or living with HIV.

New Jersey AIDS Hotline: 800-624-2377
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the confidential hotline will answer questions regarding HIV, sexually transmitted infections and Hepatitis.

 

Bollywood Movies

AIDS Jaago movie series short films from various directors show the impact of HIV in India.
Positive (Farhan Akhtar) tells the story of a family learning that the father is HIV-positive.
Positive

Blood Brothers (Vishal Bhardwaj) tells the story of a man dealing with his HIV diagnosis.
Blood Brothers – Part 1
Blood Brothers – Part2

My Brother Nikhil
Swimmer Nikhil Kapoor’s story of living with HIV and finding support from his sister.

Migration (Mira Nair) tells the story of the risks faced by migrant workers.
Migration – Part1
Migration – Part 2

Phir Milenge
Inspired by the American movie, Philadelphia, this movie tells the story of a young woman living with HIV and fighting stigma at her workplace.

Prarambha (Santosh Sivan) emphasizes the importance of testing pregnant women to prevent mother to child transmissions.
Prarambha (no audio due to copyright)

Support for LGBTQIA+ individuals navigating intersecting pressures from family, culture, and society — including South Asian-focused helplines and legal resources.

Awareness, Support, & Advocacy Organizations

Advocates for Trans Equality
Works for trans safety and quality of life through policy change.

DesiRainbow Parents and Allies
Provides education and support to advocacy for South Asian lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning individuals. Many of their services are virtual. You can sign up for their newsletter to get updated information.

Desi LGBTQ helpline for South Asians
908-367-3374
Trained peer volunteers are available to support LGBTQ+ callers. You can call or contact them via an contact form on their website.

Equality Federation
Organizes individuals and advocates for policies that support LGBTQ+ community.

Family Acceptance Project
fap@sfsu.edu
Located at San Francisco State University, the Family Acceptance Project uses evidence-based practices to prevent mental health concerns of LGBTQ+ individuals. They take into consideration family dynamics, culture and religion. They have developed a model to help families support their LGBTQ+ loved ones.

Garden State Equality (NJ)
Provides education and advocacy to achieve equality for LGBT individuals in New Jersey and beyond.

Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD)
GLAAD started as the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation to address homophobia in New York. Currently, they are known as GLAAD and they focus their efforts on advocating for all LGBTQ+ individuals and ensuring their representation.

Gender Spectrum
Offers information and support to families with gender-expansive children and teens. They offer support groups and training across the US.

Hetrick-Martin Institute
Provides resources to LGBTQI+ youth, i.e. scholarships, mental health resources, vocational counseling, homeless services, etc.

HiTops
Provides inclusive sex education to young people in New Jersey and support for the LGBT community.

Hudson Pride Center (NJ)
201-963-4779
The largest social services organization in New Jersey, serving the LGBTQ+ community. They offer a wide array of HIV prevention and care services, but are also expanding to address other needs of the community.

Human Rights Campaign
The Human Rights Campaign and Human Rights Foundation advocate for LGBTQ+ equality through policy and institutional change.

It Gets Better Project
Aims to uplift, empower and connect LGBTQ youth all over the world through storytelling and education.

Parents, Families, Friends, and Allies of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)
Offers support, education and advocacy for LGBTQ+ people and their families.

Pride Center of New Jersey
Offers support and community building for LGBTQ+ individuals.

The Trevor Project
Provides crisis counseling 24/7 for LGBTQ+ young people, peer support, advocacy and education. You can chat, text or call them.

LGBTQ+ Video Series — Opening Doors (YouTube Playlist)
A series of videos that address LGBTQ+ pride and the South Asian community.

 

School Resources

Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLISTEN)
Advocates for creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth in schools through changing policy, supporting teachers as allies, organizing youth and promoting an inclusive curriculum.

Gender and Sexualities Alliance (GSA)
Organizes to create safe spaces for trans, queer and Two-Spirit youth in schools and communities.

Stomp Out Bullying
Aims to reduce and prevent all forms of bullying through education and support to those who are bullied.

Trans Student Educational Resources
Led by trans youth, Trans Student Educational Resources advocates for trans students through training/conferences, leadership development, scholarships, advocacy, etc.

 

Legal Resources

Lambda Legal
Advocates for LGBTQ+ civil rights.

Transgender Law Center
Advocates for trans and gender-nonconforming people to live freely and openly.

 

Articles (PDF Downloads)

Is a Loved One Gay? [PDF]

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves recurring intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors. Support is available to help manage symptoms and improve well-being.

Organizations

International OCD Foundation
Provides education and resources about obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related disorders, including pediatric OCD, with materials available for both professionals and families.

 

Movies that offer portrayal of OCD

As Good As it Gets (1997) Story of a successful writer who has OCD and how his condition impacts his relationships and life.

General and state-specific resources offering mental health, community support, and other services for South Asians, including support related to immigration, culture shock, parenting, peer pressure, and psychotherapy. Multilingual resources and guides are also included.

General Mental Wellness

Mind & Body Wellness Workbook

Navigating Mental Health in South Asian Communities Workbook

National Organizations

American Psychiatric Association
703-907-7300
A professional medical organization that provides accessible, research-based mental health information and resources for patients and families.

Coping in Hard Times for Youth: Coping in Hard Times: Fact Sheet for Youth High School and College Age (PDF)
A guide from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network that helps high school and college-age youth understand how financial and life stressors can affect mental health and provides practical coping strategies to build resilience, connectedness, and hope.

Early Intervention Program (U.S. Dept. of Education)
A federal program that ensures states provide free appropriate public education, special education services, and early intervention support for children with disabilities from birth through age 21.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
A federal law and official resource site explaining the rights to free appropriate public education, early intervention, and special education services for infants, children, and youth with disabilities.

MedlinePlus
A trusted health information resource from the U.S. National Library of Medicine offering comprehensive, up-to-date information on medical and mental health topics.

Mental Health America
500 Montgomery Street, Suite 820, Alexandria, VA 22314 | 800-969-6642
A national nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, prevention, education, advocacy, and support resources for individuals and families.

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Suicide Prevention
A federal research agency providing evidence-based information on suicide prevention, warning signs, and treatment options.

State Resources

Mental health resources organized by state, applicable to the general public as well as South Asian communities.

California
South Asian Network (SAN)
18173 Pioneer Blvd., Suite I, Artesia, CA 90701
154 S Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90004
562-403-0488
A community-based organization that promotes health, mental well-being, civic engagement, and violence prevention for South Asian communities.

Florida
HFSS – Hindu Family Support Services
Tampa Bay
HFSS provides culturally sensitive, faith-based support to survivors of gender-based violence in the South Asian diaspora.

Georgia
Raksha, Inc.
866-725-7423
A nonprofit organization providing confidential, culturally competent support, education, and advocacy for South Asian survivors of violence.

Illinois
Sanjeevani
A free, 24/7 mental health and emotional support service offering confidential counseling in multiple South Asian languages for individuals and families.

Maryland
Pro Bono Counseling Project
410-825-1001
A nonprofit that connects low-income Maryland residents with free mental health counseling through a network of volunteer professionals.

Massachusetts
Mental Health Resource Guide – Boston
A comprehensive guide listing culturally relevant mental health resources, services, and support systems available in the Boston area.

Michigan
South Asian Womens Association (SAWA)
A community organization that provides support, advocacy, cultural programming, and resources for South Asian women and families in the Lansing area.

New Jersey

Arsha Bodha Center — Jana Raksha Community Care Program
84 Cortelyou Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873 | 732-690-9593
A one-on-one peer support program offering emotional, practical, and spiritual support for individuals experiencing distress, illness, or life challenges.

Jana Raksha Community Care
84 Cortelyou Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873 | 732-690-9593
A free peer-support program offering emotional and spiritual support, companionship, and referrals for individuals experiencing grief, stress, illness, or life challenges.

NJ 211
A statewide helpline that connects New Jersey residents to essential services including housing, mental health support, and crisis assistance.

NJCMO (New Jersey Care Management Organizations)
A statewide network providing coordinated care for children with mental health, substance use, or developmental needs through a wraparound service model, requiring referral through PerformCare.

PerformCare
300 Horizon Drive Suite 306, Robbinsville, NJ 08691 | 1-877-652-7624
A statewide access system that connects New Jersey youth and families to mental health, developmental disability, and substance use services.

SAMHAJ (South Asian Mental Health Awareness in Jersey)
1562 Route 130, North Brunswick, NJ 08902 | 732-940-0991
A multicultural program of NAMI New Jersey that provides mental health education, peer support groups, advocacy, referrals, and culturally responsive resources for South Asian individuals and families affected by mental illness.

Statewide Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN)
570 Broad Street, Suite 702, Newark, NJ 07102 | 800-654-SPAN (7726)
A New Jersey-based nonprofit that empowers families through advocacy, training, and support to navigate special education, healthcare, and disability services systems.

New York

Behavioral Health Support Program for Afghans
A program offering culturally responsive mental health services and support for Afghan individuals and families.

DHF NY
An organization providing community-based support, advocacy, and services for South Asian survivors of domestic violence.

India Home
A non-profit organization offering free services for South Asian seniors including five senior centers, case management, Desi Dementia Care, and many resources.

New York City Mental Health Resources
A compiled guide of mental health services, support programs, and crisis resources available throughout New York City.

South Asian Council for Social Services (SACSS)
143-02 45th Avenue, Flushing, NY 11355 | 718-321-7929
A nonprofit organization providing social services, mental health support, and community programs for
South Asian and immigrant communities in New York City.

Women for Afghan Women
71-19 162nd St, Unit CF-D
Fresh Meadows, NY 11365 | 718-591-2434
A nonprofit serving Afghan women and families with legal advocacy, shelter, and social services.

Pennsylvania
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia — Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics 215-590-7500
A multidisciplinary pediatric specialty division that provides evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for children with autism and other developmental and behavioral conditions.

Articles (PDFs)

Are Indians in the U.S. more successful than the Indians in India?
An article exploring cultural expectations, migration, and perceptions of success, highlighting how social and economic contexts shape definitions of achievement among immigrants.

Cool May Not Be Cool: The Forces of Peer Pressure: Peer Pressure
An article explaining how peer pressure influences decision-making, especially among youth, and how social expectations can lead to risky or unhealthy behaviors.

Culture shock of an immigrant
An article describing the emotional and psychological challenges immigrants face when adjusting to a new culture, including identity conflict and adaptation stress.

Gambling: Are you a gambler? How it affects your family
An article discussing the psychological, financial, and social harms of gambling, emphasizing its potential impact on families and relationships.

Parenting During Pandemic
An article outlining the mental health challenges faced by families during COVID-19, including stress, isolation, and changes in routine that affected both parents and children.

Parent Guide: Open Communication in South Asian Families: Parent Guide – Communication
A guide emphasizing the importance of open parent-child communication in maintaining emotional well-being and preventing behavioral risks, especially in culturally complex family environments.

About Psychotherapy – multilingual PDFs

What is Psychotherapy – English

What is Psychotherapy – Hindi

What is Psychotherapy – Tamil

What is Psychotherapy – Telugu

What is Psychotherapy – Marathi

Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful steps for long-term health. The resources below offer free guidance and a confidential helpline.

How to Quit Smoking
This Centers for Disease Control website offers a wealth of knowledge and resources to quit smoking, including hotlines.

NJ Quitline: 1-866-NJ-STOPS (1-866-657-8677)
Call to get a personal quit coach and a customized quit plan. They offer confidential, multilingual services and may provide free nicotine replacement therapy if you enroll in a multi-call program.

Substance use affects South Asian families across generations. This section offers multilingual peer support, national helplines, harm reduction information, treatment access guidance, and educational materials.

Family Support

Addiction programs
Al-Anon
Alateen (Teen Corner)
Nar-Anon
These programs help families and loved ones of individuals with an addiction. Their websites list meetings.

NJ Connect for Recovery Helpline — 1-855-652-3737
This is mainly a family support line for loved ones of those with a substance use problem. They provide emotional support, referrals and support groups.

SMART Recovery Family and Friends
This program uses SMART Recovery techniques and Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) to help families and loved ones of individuals with an addiction. Their website lists meetings.

Support for South Asian families struggling to cope with substance use of a loved one. As a family member of someone struggling with substance use you have the opportunity to learn from the experiences of others who have faced similar problems. You are not alone. You can call the following people:
Prem — English, Punjabi, Hindi, Gujarati: 908-601-2424
Mook — English: 908-510-5706
Sowjanya — English, Tamil, Kannada, Hindi (understands Marathi): 732-522-0444

 

Peer Recovery Programs in New Jersey

Community Peer Recovery Centers
These centers provide services such as recovery coaching, recreational activities and support groups. Centers serve specific counties.

NJ Coalition for Addiction Recovery Support
This program helps individuals get connected to community-based services to maintain recovery, such as recovery groups and sober housing.

 

12-Step & Peer Support Programs

Alcoholics Anonymous
Alcoholics Anonymous offers a free peer-based 12-step program to recovery focused on alcohol use. Their website has lists of meetings organized by state and city.

Global Gratitude Group AA (South Asian-focused, virtual)
The Global Gratitude Group offers culturally-competent meetings geared towards the South Asian community. This meeting is virtual.

Narcotics Anonymous
Narcotics Anonymous offers a free, peer-based 12-step program to recovery. Their websites have lists of meetings organized by state and city.

Oxford House
This program offers sober living options, where a group of people in recovery live together and support each other’s recovery.

SMART Recovery
SMART Recovery offers a peer-based 4-point program to recovery that is rooted in science and experience. Their website lists meetings.

 

National Organizations & Resources

Brenda Zane — Holistic support for parents of children with substance use issues
Holistic health, wellness, and education program to help parents of kids with substance use to get healthier, learn skills and stay connected.

Center for Motivation and Change
Here is what the CMC website says about their programs: “The Center for Motivation & Change (CMC) is a group practice of dedicated clinicians and researchers who rely on science and kindness to help people change. We employ respectful, flexible, evidence-based approaches to address substance use and compulsive behavior problems as well as other mental health issues, including trauma.”

Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is a federal scientific research institute and the world’s largest funder of biomedical research on drug use and addiction. NIDA’s mission is to advance science on drug use and addiction and to apply that knowledge to improve individual and public health (text from NIDA website).

Rethinking Drinking (NIAAA)
This website provides realistic tools to assess and educate about alcohol use.

SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)
SAMHSA offers a wide variety of resources, tools, information and funding to support mental health and substance use education and treatment.

SAMHSA National Helpline — 800-662-HELP (4357)
This helpline offers free, confidential treatment referral and information service for individuals with substance use disorders and their families.

 

Harm Reduction (NJ)

NJ Harm Reduction Coalition
Syringe Access programs provide unused syringe/needles, fentanyl test strips and other supplies to minimize the risk of transmitting viruses such as Hepatitis C and HIV. These programs also offer linkage services to healthcare and substance use treatment. Fentanyl test trips allow a person to test their drug supply to reduce the chance of an overdose. A supply of Naloxone and training on how to administer it is available at this website.

Opioid Overdose Reversal Medication Information (SAMHSA)
Naloxone and nalmefene are medications that reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and should be given whenever an opioid overdose is suspected. This website provides an overview of these medications and other information related to opioid overdose.

Rx Awareness (CDC)
This website provides an overview of prescription opioid use and overdose prevention as well as shares real-life stories.

 

Treatment Access in New Jersey

Reach NJ for uninsured or Medicaid individuals — 1-844-732-2465
This is a statewide hotline, available 24/7, to help NJ residents with Medicaid or no insurance to get into substance use treatment. Immigration status does not affect referral to treatment. When you call, a staff member will complete a screening to determine what level of treatment you need and where you can go for treatment.

If you have insurance: For individuals with private insurance: Call the number on the back of your insurance card for substance use treatment referrals.

 

Articles (PDF Downloads)

Alcohol – An Acceptable Danger?

How much Alcohol is Safe to Drink?

I need a drink. Do you? How much is too much?

Is Drinking Bad for you? It Depends on the Liver

Living with an Alcoholic. Learn How Al Anon can help.

Marijuana – Healing or Damaging

Medical Consequences of Alcohol

So you have Drinking Problem – Learn what can you do about it

Substance Use Resource Guide 2023

What is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)?

 

Books about Substance Use

Beautiful Boy: A Father’s Journey Through His Son’s Addiction — David Sheff

Beyond Addiction: How Science and Kindness Help People Change — Jeffrey Foote, Carrie Wilkens et al.
This book offers an excellent resource for families struggling with drug and alcohol use problems.

The Compassion Antidote — Catherine Taughinbaugh

The Language of Letting Go — Melody Beattie

 

Movies about Substance Use

Hollywood

Clean and Sober (1988) – A real estate agent struggles with drug addiction and its effects on his personal life.

Days of Wine and Roses (1962) – An alcoholic marries a young woman who is a teetotaller. He influences her to drink heavily with him.

Dopesick (2021) – This series explores the role pharmaceutical companies played in the current opioid epidemic.

Flight (2012) – A pilot safely lands an airplane despite a malfunction, but a subsequent investigation of the landing reveals the pilot’s addiction.

Leaving Las Vegas (1995) – After losing his family and job, a screenwriter struggling with alcohol moves to Las Vegas to drink himself to death.

Lost Weekend (1945) – A series of events unfold over four days in the life of a person struggling with alcohol.

The Wire (2002-2008) – This series explores the relationship between the drug trade and law enforcement in Baltimore.

Bollywood

Aashiqui 2 (2013) – A musician’s career is threatened due to his alcoholism until he helps an up-and-coming singer.

Daddy (1989) – A man is shunned by his family due to his alcoholism until he accidentally makes contact with his daughter. The story explores the relationship between a daughter and her father who continues to struggle with his addiction.

Devdas (2002) – A man’s inability to have his true love leads him to alcohol.

Party (1984) – People gather to celebrate a friend who has won an award and things take an unexpected turn.

Udta Punjab (2016) – This movie explores drug use within the youth in Punjab.

Suicide prevention begins with awareness and open conversation. Whether you are concerned for someone you love, a survivor of loss, or seeking support for yourself — help is here.

Crisis Hotlines

988 Lifeline Chat
Offers free, confidential online chat with trained 988 crisis counselors, available 24/7.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988
Provides free, confidential 24/7 support for people experiencing suicidal thoughts, mental health distress, substance use crisis, or emotional crisis.

The Trevor Project
1-866-488-7386 | Text START to 678678
24/7 Suicide Hotline for LGBTQ Youth provides free, confidential 24/7 crisis support by phone, text, and chat for LGBTQ+ young people.

National & International Organizations

American Association of Suicidology (AAS)
Advances suicide prevention through research, education, and training for professionals and communities.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)
Provides education, advocacy, research funding, and support for individuals affected by suicide.

International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP)
A global organization dedicated to suicide prevention through research, advocacy, and international collaboration.

Speaking of Suicide
Offers accessible, evidence-based resources for understanding, preventing, and responding to suicide.

The Jed Foundationn
Focuses on protecting emotional health and preventing suicide among teens and young adults.

 

NJ Support Groups & Organizations

Janani: Suicide Loss Survivor Support Group
A free peer support group for individuals who have lost a loved one to suicide.

Survivors of Suicide Loss Support Group
4 Madison Ave, Madison, NJ 07940 | 908-605-0325
A support group for individuals grieving the loss of a loved one to suicide; participants are encouraged to confirm meeting details prior to attending.

 

PDF Downloads

After Suicide Attempt — Guide for Families

Helping loved one who is suicidal (SAMHSA publication)

Light at the End of the Tunnel – Depression and Suicide

Losing a Loved One to Suicide

Preventing Suicide is Everyone’s Business

Suicide: why people take away their own lives

Suicide Prevention Day Article

 

Books

Dying to Be Free: A Healing Guide for Families After a Suicide — Beverly Cobain, Jean Larch
This book offers advice on loss of a loved one to suicide. The author also addresses some of the questions often asked by the survivors in the aftermath of suicide.

Night Falls Fast: Understanding Suicide — Kay Redfield Jamison
Author, an expert on mood disorder as well someone with first hand experience, offers well researched information on suicide in this book.

No Time to Say Goodbye — Carla Fine
This very engaging and readable book by the survivor of a suicide loss, offers hope and guidance through the various stages of the survival process.

The Requirement of Grief – Danielle Ariano
This is a very touching account of losing the sister to suicide. This book takes the reader through the author’s painful journey of living with her older sister’s mental illness and eventul loss to suicide eventually. It is honest, readable and engaging.

Touched by Suicide: Hope and Healing After Loss — Michael F. Myers, M.D. and Carla Fine
In this guidebook, Dr. Myers, a leading psychiatrist, and Carla Fine, a survivor of suicide loss combine their perspectives as a physician and a survivor to offer compassionate and practical advice to anyone affected by suicide.

Community Support Groups & South Asian Organizations

Community-based peer support can be a vital complement to professional mental health care. The organizations below offer culturally grounded support for South Asian and diverse communities.

Jana Raksha Community Care Program (NJ)
84 Cortelyou Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873 | 732-690-9593 | Jana Raksha Community Care
A one-on-one peer support program offering emotional, practical, and spiritual support for individuals experiencing distress, illness, or life challenges.

SAMHAJ Self-Help Groups (NJ)
samhaj@naminj.org | 732-940-0991 | naminj.org | support group flyer
Monthly peer-led support groups for individuals with mental health conditions and their family members, offering culturally responsive community-based support

 

Other South Asian Organizations by State / Region

Behavioral Health Support Program for Afghans
New York
Behavioral Health Support Program for Afghans
A program offering culturally responsive mental health services and support for Afghan individuals and families.

DHF NY South Asian Women
Hicksville, NY | DHF
A New York organization providing community-based support, advocacy, and services for South Asian survivors of domestic violence.

NJCMO (New Jersey Care Management Organizations)
NJCMO
A statewide network providing coordinated care for children with mental health, substance use, or developmental needs through a wraparound service model, requiring referral through PerformCare.

Raksha, Inc.
Georgia | 866-725-7423 | Raksha, Inc.
A nonprofit organization providing confidential, culturally competent support, education, and advocacy for South Asian survivors of violence.

SAN (South Asian Network, Southern California)
18173 Pioneer Blvd., Suite I, Artesia, CA 90701
154 S. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90004
562-403-0488 | saninfo@southasiannetwork.org | South Asian Network
A community-based organization providing support to South Asians in Southern California in the areas of community health, emotional wellbeing, gender-based violence, economic development, and immigrant rights. Free services are offered in six South Asian languages: Bangla, Hindi, Nepali, Pashto, Punjabi, and Urdu.

Women for Afghan Women
71-19 162nd St, Unit CF-D
Fresh Meadows, NY 11365 | 718-591-2434 | Women for Afghan Women
A nonprofit serving Afghan women and families with legal advocacy, shelter, and social services.

Trauma can result from distressing or overwhelming experiences and may affect emotional, mental, and physical well-being. Support is available.

National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)
Aims to increase access to services for children and families who experience or witness traumatic events. The NCTSN is administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and coordinated by the UCLA-Duke University National Center for Child Traumatic Stress (NCCTS).

Low-cost, sliding-scale, or free mental health and medical services in New Jersey regardless of insurance status. Organized by statewide resources and then by county.

 

Medical Insurance in New Jersey

NJ Family Care (NJ Medicaid) — NJ Medicaid for uninsured, low-income residents. Legal permanent residents (5+ years) can also apply. Covers substance use treatment.

 

Statewide New Jersey Resources

Center for Psychological Services (FDU)
131 Temple Ave, Hackensack, NJ 07601 | 201- 692-2645 ext. 1
Low-fee therapy and assessment in Hackensack/Bergen County.

Center for Psychological Services (GSAPP / Rutgers)
52 Frelinghuysen Rd, Piscataway, NJ 08854 | 848-445-6111
Assessments, psychotherapy, specialty clinics for children, adolescents, and adults.

Coordinated Specialty Care / First Episode Psychosis (Rutgers)
100 Metroplex Drive, Edison, NJ | 732- 235-8400
Ages 15–35, first episode psychosis within two years of symptoms.

Gen Psych
1-855-436-7792
Multiple locations; DBT groups, substance abuse, eating disorder groups.

High Focus Centers
877- 959-3416
Individual and group treatment; groups for tweens, LGBTQ, trauma. Insurance varies.

Kean University Psychological Services
215 North Ave, Hillside, NJ 07205 | 908-737-5890
Free assessment and therapy for students and community.

NJ 211
Dial 211
General statewide helpline and resource referral.

Open Path Psychotherapy Collective
Affordable online therapy.

Rutgers UBHC Partial Hospitalization
671 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway, NJ | 800-969-5300
All-day group-based treatment, support and case management.

State of NJ Mental Health Services Directory
Complete New Jersey mental health services listing by county.

 

Find Resources by County

Search the New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) directory [PDF] to find state funded mental health programs across New Jersey. If you need help finding a program, call DMHAS at 1-800-382-6717 for assistance.

Beyond Addiction, A Guide for Families – Jeffrey Foote, PhD, Carrie Wilkens, PhD and Nicole Kosanke, PhD. This is a good resource for families struggling with drug and alcohol use problems.

Crazy Busy: Overstretched, Overbooked, and About to Snap — Edward Hallowell (2007) This book may be of interest to both youth and adults (About multitasking and busyness)

iGen — Jean M. Twenge, PhD (How smartphones are making kids lonely, anxious, and unprepared for adulthood)

NJ Commission Report: Growing Up Online (Sept 2025) [PDF] — Evidence based report on effects of social media on adolescents

I Am Not Sick, I Don’t Need Help – Xavier Amador, Ph.D. This book is about how to help someone with serious mental illness accept treatment when they are refusing.

Surviving Schizophrenia, A Family Manual – E. Fuller Torrey, MD. This is one of the best books on schizophrenia and other serious mental illnesses to help improve understanding of the often misunderstood illness.

The Anxious Generation — Jonathan Haidt (Social psychologist)
This well researched book cites plenty of evidence to show the relationship between various factors like social media and mobile phone use and the rise of anxiety and depression in the teens.

You Need Help! – Mark Komrad, MD. This book offers step-by-step guidance that will help you help your loved one who might have mental illness.