Mental and Emotional Support Resources
Beware Crisis Pregnancy Centers
Beware of crisis pregnancy centers that pretend to offer post-abortion counseling. No legitimate resource should make you feel judged, shamed, or force a particular set of views on you about your decision. This article provides information and tips on finding a legitimate post-abortion counseling service.
If you’re not sure whether a resource is legitimate, here are some common warning signs:
- Discussion of “post-abortion syndrome”.
- Claims that abortion frequently causes physical and mental harm.
- Discouraging sex outside of marriage and/or using birth control.
Military Resources
Although research shows that abortion doesn’t do long-term harm to the physical health or mental well-being of women, it’s normal to have complex emotions during this time.
You’re entitled to mental health services through TRICARE after an abortion.
Military One Source can also connect you with counseling resources.
Non-Military Resources
If you aren’t comfortable going through a military resource, there are other options.
Postpartum Support Internationalopen_in_new
- Online support groups for those who have had abortions for personal reasons.
- Online support groups for those who have had abortions for medical reasons.
- 90-minute meetings moderated by trained peer facilitators so women can speak freely about their experiences in a non-judgmental space
- Check the website for meeting days and times
Exhale: Pro-Voice open_in_new
- Confidential text-based post-abortion emotional support
- Text 617-749-2948 to receive an answer within 24 hours
Connect and Breatheopen_in_new
- Confidential, toll-free talk line 1-866-647-1764
- Staffed by personnel who have been trained to listen and provide unbiased support and encouragement of self-care
- Check the website for available days and hours
All-Options Talk Lineopen_in_new
- Free hotline 1-888-493-0092
- Staffed by volunteer peer counselors
- This organization’s values include care, authentic engagement, inclusivity and justice.
- If your call goes to voicemail, your call will be returned within 48 hours.
Faith Aloudopen_in_new
- Free hotline 1-888-717-501
- Associated with the All-Options Talkline
- Staffed by volunteer clergy and lay leaders
- Their goal is to provide nonjudgemental spiritual counseling. Its website has spiritual resources for multiple faith traditions