Buffalo’s Mental Health Support Network: Community Resources You Should Know About

Buffalo, NY is more than just the City of Good Neighbors—it’s a community that genuinely shows up for each other, especially when it comes to mental health. For those looking to connect with local outreach efforts, support services, and meaningful events, Buffalo offers a rich network of nonprofit organizations and community-based initiatives that help foster healing, understanding, and hope.

At our practice, we believe that caring for mental health goes beyond therapy sessions or medication—it includes building relationships, finding safe spaces, and knowing where to turn in times of need. Whether you're looking for support for yourself, a loved one, or just want to get more involved in the community, here are some standout resources and events in the Buffalo area.

Local Buffalo Nonprofits Offering Mental Health Support

Crisis Services

One of the cornerstones of mental health support in Buffalo, Crisis Services provides 24/7 crisis intervention for mental health emergencies, domestic violence, sexual assault, and homelessness. Their trained counselors and mobile outreach teams offer immediate support when individuals need it most.

Key Services:

24/7 Crisis Hotline: (716) 834-3131
Mobile outreach teams for in-person crisis intervention
Trauma-informed counseling and advocacy

NAMI Buffalo & Erie County

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers educational programs, support groups, and advocacy work in the Buffalo area. Their free peer-led support groups for individuals and families affected by mental illness are an invaluable resource.

Notable Programs:

Family-to-Family classes
Peer support groups for individuals living with mental illness
Community education and awareness efforts

Website: namibuffalo.ny.org

The Mental Health Advocates (MHA) of Western New York

MHA provides advocacy, youth programs, and community outreach to promote mental wellness throughout WNY. They focus on early intervention and work closely with schools, employers, and community leaders to reduce stigma and increase access to care.

Programs to Explore:

Just Tell One campaign (targeted toward youth and young adults)
Peer support specialists
Mental health education workshops

Website: mhawny.org

Community Events Promoting Mental Wellness

Buffalo’s community spirit shines through in its many events dedicated to raising awareness and supporting mental health. Here are just a few you can keep an eye out for:

Mental Health Awareness Month (May)

Each May, local organizations come together to host walks, panel discussions, art exhibits, and wellness fairs across the city to normalize mental health conversations and encourage people to seek help without shame.

Out of the Darkness Walk – Buffalo

Organized by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, this event brings together community members to support suicide prevention and honor loved ones lost. It’s both powerful and healing.

Art and Wellness Events

Groups like Buffalo Arts Studio and Locust Street Art often collaborate with mental health advocates to host expressive arts workshops. Art therapy can be a wonderful tool for self-expression and emotional release.

Community Gardens & Mindfulness in Nature

Nonprofits such as Grassroots Gardens WNY and Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper often host wellness walks and nature-based mindfulness sessions that promote grounding, connection, and mental clarity.

Youth & Family-Focused Initiatives

Families play a central role in mental wellness, and thankfully, Buffalo has several nonprofits geared toward supporting youth and caregivers.

Best Self Behavioral Health’s outreach programs partner with schools and after-school groups for preventive education (note: this is informational only—no promotion of their clinical services).
Say Yes Buffalo offers wraparound support for students and families, helping connect them to mental health, mentoring, and educational resources.
Compeer Buffalo matches community volunteers with individuals managing mental illness to foster social connection and reduce isolation. They also offer a Compeer for Kids program that supports children and teens with trained mentors.

Getting Involved

Sometimes the best way to care for your own mental health is by giving back. Many of these organizations welcome volunteers, advocates, and peer mentors. Whether you have a few hours a month or are looking to make a deeper commitment, giving back can be a powerful part of the healing process.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo has always been a city that rallies behind its people—and when it comes to mental health, that’s no different. From crisis support to community art and advocacy, the resources here are extensive, compassionate, and rooted in the belief that no one should face mental health challenges alone.

If you're unsure where to start, reach out to one of the organizations above or contact us—we're always happy to point you in the right direction.