Mississippi Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers: A No‑Fluff, State‑Specific Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is written for single mothers in Mississippi who need real, fast, trustworthy help with mental health. It uses only official Mississippi and U.S. sources and is verified as of September 2025.

Quick Help Box (save these)

• Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7). If there’s immediate danger, call 911. Mississippi’s 988 routes you to in‑state counselors and mobile teams when needed. See the state’s 988 page for details. (dmh.ms.gov)
• Mississippi Department of Mental Health (DMH) Helpline: 1‑877‑210‑8513 (24/7 information, referrals, and help filing complaints). (dmh.ms.gov)
• Mobile Crisis Response Team in your region (24/7, they come to you): see the table below or call the DMH Helpline. (dmh.ms.gov)
• National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (pregnancy & postpartum): Call or text 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262) (24/7, free, confidential). (mchb.hrsa.gov)
• Domestic violence help in Mississippi (24/7 state hotline): 1‑800‑898‑3234 via Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence (MCADV). (msdh.ms.gov)
• Mississippi Medicaid & CHIP eligibility and income limits (effective March 1, 2025): see the official Division of Medicaid (DOM) table; pregnant women up to 194% FPL, CHIP up to 209% FPL. (medicaid.ms.gov)

What this guide adds (we reviewed the top search results)

We examined the top Mississippi mental‑health resource pages and maternal‑health roundups. Most leave out dollar amounts, county‑level phone numbers, or exact application steps. Below you’ll find:

• Concrete income limits and numbers from Mississippi Division of Medicaid (effective March 1, 2025). (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Every DMH mobile crisis number statewide; plus crisis stabilization unit phones you can call directly. (dmh.ms.gov)
• Where to apply, how long approvals take, what documents you need, and who to call if something stalls. (law.cornell.edu, medicaid.ms.gov)
• Mississippi‑specific supports for postpartum mental health, maternal home visiting, and substance use care (including 48‑hour priority admission for pregnant women). (msdh.ms.gov, casetext.com)

Key emergency and quick‑turnaround contacts

Mississippi routes crisis calls locally and can dispatch mobile teams when needed.

Step 1: Get coverage to pay for care (Mississippi Medicaid & CHIP)

Mississippi Medicaid covers therapy, psychiatry, crisis services, and telehealth. CHIP covers kids up to age 19. Here are the current income limits and who qualifies.

• Pregnant women qualify up to 194% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and keep Medicaid for 12 months postpartum. Pregnant minors can qualify regardless of family income. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Children up to age 19 may qualify for Medicaid or CHIP; CHIP goes up to 209% FPL. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Parents/caretaker relatives have very low income limits in Mississippi (see table). If you don’t qualify as a parent/caretaker, your child may still qualify. (medicaid.ms.gov)

Medicaid & CHIP income limits (effective March 1, 2025)

Source: Mississippi Division of Medicaid (limits effective 3/1/2025). See full table for all family sizes. (medicaid.ms.gov)

Tip: Mississippi also offers Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women (PEPW). Qualified providers (OB/GYNs, FQHCs, RHCs, MSDH) can grant temporary Medicaid coverage for outpatient prenatal care while your full application is processed, as long as you apply by the end of the following month. (medicaid.ms.gov, billstatus.ls.state.ms.us)

How to apply (fastest options first)

• Apply in person at your DOM Regional Office (30 locations; phones listed) — call ahead to check hours. Statewide toll‑free: 1‑800‑421‑2408. Regional office addresses and numbers are posted here: DOM Regional Office Chart (by county). (medicaid.ms.gov)
• If you are pregnant and need care now, ask your OB/FQHC/MSDH clinic to screen you for PEPW at your visit so you can be seen immediately. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• If you’re enrolled in MississippiCAN/CHIP managed care, member services can help you find in‑network behavioral health:
  • Magnolia Health: (877) 236‑0751
  • Molina Healthcare: (844) 809‑8438
  • TrueCare (Mississippi True): 1‑833‑230‑2050
  • Enrollment broker (Gainwell): 1‑800‑884‑3222
    Current CCOs and switching rules for 2025 are posted here. (medicaid.ms.gov)

Required documents (have these ready)

• Photo ID (if you have one), proof of Mississippi residence, Social Security numbers (if available), proof of pregnancy (clinic test or note), proof of income (recent pay stubs or letter). PEPW lets you attest to income while DOM verifies it. (medicaid.ms.gov)

Timelines to expect

• Federal rules require a decision within 45 days for non‑disability Medicaid applications (up to 90 days if based on disability). Real‑world processing can take longer during backlogs. (law.cornell.edu, mississippitoday.org)
• PEPW coverage should start immediately once a qualified provider approves it; you must submit a full Medicaid application by the end of the next month. (billstatus.ls.state.ms.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call DOM toll‑free 1‑800‑421‑2408 or visit your regional office to escalate. If you’re pregnant and can’t access PEPW, ask your clinic to contact DOM about their PEPW enrollment. If your plan denies a mental‑health claim, appeal and, if needed, file a parity complaint with the Mississippi Insurance Department (consumer help line 800‑562‑2957). (mid.ms.gov)

Step 2: Reach Mississippi’s Mobile Crisis and local community mental health centers (CMHCs)

Mississippi funds 24/7 Mobile Crisis Response Teams statewide. They de‑escalate, assess, and arrange care in the community, including transporting to Crisis Stabilization Units when needed. Services are provided by your region’s CMHC. (dmh.ms.gov)

Mobile Crisis Response Teams (by region)

Source: Mississippi DMH Crisis Services. (dmh.ms.gov)

You can also contact your CMHC directly for intake:

• Examples: Communicare (Region 2) 662‑234‑7521; LIFECORE Health Group (Region 3) 662‑640‑4595; Hinds Behavioral Health (Region 9) 601‑321‑2400; Pine Belt MHR (Region 12) 601‑544‑4641; Weems CMHC (Region 10) 601‑483‑4821; Region 8 MHS 601‑825‑8800. See the full regional directory on DMH. (dmh.ms.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call the DMH Helpline 1‑877‑210‑8513 and ask for help getting a same‑day assessment with your CMHC. If you hit barriers or rights issues, ask for the Office of Consumer Support. (dmh.ms.gov)

Step 3: Use coverage you already have — including telehealth

Mississippi Medicaid recognizes CMHCs, FQHCs, and Rural Health Clinics as both originating and distant site providers for behavioral‑health telehealth, and reimburses appropriately when services are provided by the same organization. That means you can often do therapy or med checks from home or a nearby clinic. Consent and documentation rules apply. (casetext.com, cchpca.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your clinic if they bill telehealth for Medicaid. If your plan denies a telehealth visit, appeal; parity protections apply. The Mississippi Insurance Department’s help line is 800‑562‑2957, or file a complaint online. (mid.ms.gov, midhelps.org)

Postpartum and perinatal mental health (depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD)

Start here:

• National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262) (call/text 24/7). (mchb.hrsa.gov)
• Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies (MSDH) provides referrals statewide, including help with depression/anxiety screening and linking to care. (msdh.ms.gov)
• PSI Mississippi (Postpartum Support International) offers online groups and state‑level support, plus national helplines in English/Spanish. (psichapters.com)

Coverage notes for Mississippi:

• Pregnant women qualify for Medicaid up to 194% FPL and keep coverage for 12 months postpartum; presumptive eligibility can start coverage immediately through qualified providers. (medicaid.ms.gov)
• Recent state maternal mortality reviews show most pregnancy‑related deaths were preventable and include mental‑health and substance‑related causes — stronger screening and treatment save lives. (msdh.ms.gov)

Real‑world example: A Rankin County mom with intrusive thoughts calls 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA, gets immediate support, then uses Region 8 Mobile Crisis (877‑657‑4098) for a same‑day safety plan and intake. Her FQHC continues CBT by telehealth through Medicaid. (msdh.ms.gov, region8mhs.org, cchpca.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call the DMH Helpline 1‑877‑210‑8513; ask for perinatal‑informed providers near you. If you’re on MississippiCAN/CHIP, call your plan’s member services to locate in‑network perinatal behavioral‑health clinicians. (dmh.ms.gov, medicaid.ms.gov)

Substance use in pregnancy or parenting: confidential, fast help

• Mississippi DMH requires that pregnant women be given top priority for SUD treatment, not placed on waiting lists, and admitted within 48 hours. If a program is full, it must help place you at another DMH‑certified provider and notify DMH within 48 hours. (casetext.com)
• MSDH operates a medications‑for‑opioid‑use‑disorder program with free rides to appointments; you can self‑refer online. (msdh.ms.gov)
• SAMHSA’s 24/7 helpline 1‑800‑662‑HELP (4357) and Mississippi provider list can also help you find low‑cost programs. (samhsa.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a provider says “no space,” reference DMH Rule 24‑2‑49.4 and ask them to assist with placement within 48 hours. If barriers persist, call DMH Helpline 1‑877‑210‑8513 and request help from the Office of Consumer Support. (casetext.com, dmh.ms.gov)

Where to get low‑cost counseling and psychiatry (with or without insurance)

• Community Mental Health Centers (see above) offer sliding‑fee services and take Medicaid/CHIP.
• HRSA‑funded Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) offer behavioral health and adjust fees based on income. Use the official finder: Find a Health Center (HRSA). (data.hrsa.gov)

Examples (publicly listed contacts):

• Coastal Family Health Center (Gulf Coast) offers behavioral health at multiple clinics; after‑hours line 1‑877‑374‑4991. (coastalfamilyhealth.org)
• Jackson‑Hinds Comprehensive Health Center (Jackson metro) provides low‑cost care with a sliding fee program. Main: 601‑362‑5321. (jackson-hinds.com, npin.cdc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call 211 or 866‑472‑8265 (United Way 211 Mississippi) to locate sliding‑fee clinics and transportation help in your county. (unitedwaysems.org, uwca.myresourcedirectory.com)

Crisis Stabilization Units (short‑term mental health beds)

If mobile crisis recommends a short stay, DMH’s Crisis Stabilization Units (CSUs) can admit quickly and link you back to local care. Phone numbers include Brandon 601‑724‑9444, Gulfport 228‑213‑5900, Jackson 769‑257‑6288, and others statewide. See full list on DMH Crisis Services. (dmh.ms.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call your region’s Mobile Crisis number (table above) or the DMH Helpline 1‑877‑210‑8513 to be routed to an available CSU. (dmh.ms.gov)

Domestic violence, sexual assault, and trauma‑informed counseling

• Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence: 1‑800‑898‑3234 (24/7). MSDH lists hotlines and programs statewide. (msdh.ms.gov)
• Gulf Coast Center for Non‑Violence (Coast): 1‑800‑800‑1396. Domestic Abuse Family Shelter (Pine Belt): 1‑800‑649‑1092. See MSDH statewide directory. (msdh.ms.gov)
• NAMI Mississippi offers free peer and family support groups. Info line 601‑899‑9058 / 800‑357‑0388. (namims.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call 988 for safety planning and mental‑health support while you connect with a shelter advocate. (dmh.ms.gov)

If you’re caring for a child with behavioral health needs

• Community options include outpatient therapy, wraparound, family/youth peer support, MAP Teams (single entry point for complex cases), and MYPAC (intensive in‑home services), typically for Medicaid‑eligible youth. Start with your CMHC or Canopy Children’s Solutions (statewide care coordinator 800‑388‑6247). (dmh.ms.gov, mycanopy.org)
• Families as Allies (statewide, family‑run): Parent Concern Line 601‑608‑7525; main 601‑355‑0915. (faams.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Call the DMH Helpline 1‑877‑210‑8513 and ask for your local MAP Team contact. (dmh.ms.gov)

Reality check: costs, wait times, and what’s changing

• Many clinics offer same‑day crisis assessments, but routine therapy and psychiatry may have waitlists. Ask about cancellations and telehealth.
• Medicaid applications should be decided within 45 days, but backlogs happen; PEPW exists so pregnant mothers can start care immediately. (law.cornell.edu, medicaid.ms.gov)
• Mississippi is expanding tools to help pregnant women find care faster (e.g., the new UMMC Medicaid prenatal/family planning clinic locator). (apnews.com)
• Mississippi’s maternal mortality review found 80% of pregnancy‑related deaths preventable; mental health and substance use contribute. This is why postpartum Medicaid now lasts 12 months. (msdh.ms.gov, medicaid.ms.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (bookmark this)

Regional snapshots (where to start)

Jackson Metro (Hinds, Madison, Rankin)

• Hinds Behavioral Health: 601‑321‑2400. Mobile Crisis 601‑955‑6381. (dmh.ms.gov)
• Region 8 (Madison/Rankin/Simpson/Copiah/Lincoln) Mobile Crisis 877‑657‑4098; Rankin clinic 601‑825‑8800. (region8mhs.org)
• DOM Hinds Regional Office (for applications): 601‑978‑2399. (medicaid.ms.gov)

Gulf Coast (Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, George, Stone, Pearl River)

• Pine Belt MHR Coast Team (Mobile Crisis): 800‑681‑0798; Jackson County team 833‑630‑1947. (dmh.ms.gov)
• Coastal Family Health Center behavioral health; after‑hours line 1‑877‑374‑4991. (coastalfamilyhealth.org)
• DOM Gulfport / Pascagoula regional offices: 228‑863‑3328, 228‑762‑9591. (medicaid.ms.gov)

Delta (Bolivar, Sunflower, Washington, Leflore, Coahoma, etc.)

• Life Help (Region 6) main 662‑453‑6211; Mobile Crisis 866‑453‑6216. (dmh.ms.gov)
• DOM Greenville: 662‑332‑9370; Greenwood: 662‑455‑1053. (medicaid.ms.gov)

Northeast/North Mississippi

• LIFECORE (Region 3) 662‑640‑4595; Mobile Crisis 866‑255‑9986. Region 4 Mobile Crisis 888‑287‑4443. (dmh.ms.gov)

Application checklist (print or screenshot)

• Photo ID (if available), Social Security numbers (if available), proof of Mississippi address, proof of income (last 30 days), proof of pregnancy (clinic note/test), birth certificates or Medicaid numbers for children.
• Your preferred clinic list (names, phones) and a note about transportation/childcare needs.
• If pregnant: ask your provider about PEPW to start care now while DOM processes your application. (medicaid.ms.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting for a “perfect time” to call. If you feel unsafe or overwhelmed, call 988 now. You don’t have to be suicidal to use 988. (dmh.ms.gov)
• Applying for Medicaid without documenting income or address. Bring what you have and submit the rest quickly; delays often come from missing documents. Federal rules set a 45‑day decision window — don’t let your file sit. (law.cornell.edu)
• Not asking about telehealth. Many CMHCs, FQHCs, and RHCs can see you by video (or at a nearby clinic) and bill Medicaid. (cchpca.org)
• If pregnant with substance use concerns, accepting a waitlist. State rules require placement for pregnant women within 48 hours — ask for help with transfer if full. (casetext.com)
• Ignoring coverage denials. Use plan appeals and parity protections; call the Mississippi Insurance Department consumer line 800‑562‑2957 if needed. (mid.ms.gov, midhelps.org)

Diverse communities: specific doors to knock on

LGBTQ+ single mothers

• 988 offers LGBTQ‑affirming support; many FQHCs provide inclusive counseling on a sliding scale. Use HRSA’s health center locator and ask for LGBTQ‑friendly providers. (data.hrsa.gov)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children

• Ask your CMHC about peer support and wraparound. For children with serious emotional disturbance, request MAP Team support through your CMHC; Families as Allies can help advocate (Parent Concern Line 601‑608‑7525). (dmh.ms.gov, faams.org)

Veteran single mothers

• Use 988, press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line. Your local CMHC and HRSA health centers can coordinate with VA services. (dmh.ms.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms; language access

• MSDH and DOM provide free interpreter services and language access at no cost when you apply or receive services. Ask for an interpreter — it’s your right. (msdh.ms.gov, regulations.justia.com)

Tribal citizens and moms in tribal communities

• If you live in or near Choctaw communities (e.g., Neshoba/Leake/Scott), call Region 10 Weems CMHC (601‑483‑4821) or the Region 10 Mobile Crisis 800‑803‑0245 for urgent behavioral health; they coordinate with local health systems. (dmh.ms.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access/transport

• Telehealth is covered by Medicaid across CMHCs, FQHCs, and RHCs; ask your clinic to set up a video visit and about transportation help. United Way 211 can connect you to local rides and support. (cchpca.org, unitedwaysems.org)

Single fathers and non‑maternal caregivers

• All resources above apply regardless of gender. Use your local CMHC and 988; children’s services (MAP Teams, wraparound) are family‑driven. (dmh.ms.gov)

Language access quick facts (when applying for Medicaid or using MSDH/DMH services):

• DOM must provide interpreters and accommodations upon request; you are not required to bring your own interpreter. MSDH offers interpreter and translation services via its Language Access program. (regulations.justia.com, msdh.ms.gov)

Program timelines at a glance

Tables: at‑a‑glance numbers you can use

A. Crisis numbers you can call now

B. Medicaid/CHIP income thresholds (high‑level)

Full, current table (effective 3/1/2025): DOM income limits. (medicaid.ms.gov)

C. Mobile Crisis Response (MS statewide, 24/7)

Source: DMH Crisis Services. (dmh.ms.gov)

D. Who to call for managed care help (2025)

Source: DOM managed care contacts; 2025 plan line‑up noted in DOM notice. (medicaid.ms.gov)

E. Fast programs for moms (how to start)

If a plan or insurer blocks care: know your rights

Most health plans must follow mental‑health parity — mental health benefits can’t be more restrictive than medical/surgical benefits. If you suspect a violation (visit limits, prior auth hurdles far stricter than for medical care), appeal and contact the Mississippi Insurance Department consumer help line 800‑562‑2957, or file a complaint online.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your clinician for a parity support letter. If still denied, file a complaint and notify your plan in writing. Keep copies of EOBs and denial letters.

10 Mississippi‑specific FAQs (quick answers)

1. Where do I start if I need help tonight but don’t want to go to the ER?
   Call or text 988. Ask for your local Mobile Crisis Response Team if you need someone to come to you.
2. I’m pregnant and uninsured. How fast can I get coverage?
   Ask your OB/FQHC/MSDH clinic for Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Women (PEPW) to start outpatient coverage immediately; then submit a full Medicaid application by the end of the next month.
3. How long does Medicaid take to decide?
   By federal rule, within 45 days for non‑disability cases (up to 90 days for disability). Follow up if no decision by then.
4. How long does postpartum Medicaid last in Mississippi?
   12 months after delivery.
5. What if I can’t get to appointments?
   Ask your clinic about Medicaid transportation and telehealth options. Many CMHCs/FQHCs provide video visits. Dial 211 for local ride programs.
6. I’m using substances and scared to ask for help while pregnant. Will I be turned away?
   No. DMH rules require 48‑hour priority admission for pregnant women into SUD treatment and prenatal care referrals if a bed isn’t available.
7. My plan denied therapy visits — says I’ve hit a limit. Is that allowed?
   Often not, due to parity rules. Appeal and contact the Mississippi Insurance Department at 800‑562‑2957.
8. Where can I find a sliding‑fee therapist near me?
   Use HRSA’s Find a Health Center to locate FQHCs offering behavioral health.
9. Who can help me navigate kids’ services (IEPs, school behavior)?
   Families as Allies (Parent Concern Line 601‑608‑7525) and your CMHC’s youth services/MAP Team.
10. Are there local support groups?
    Yes — NAMI Mississippi offers free peer and family groups across the state. Info line 601‑899‑9058 / 800‑357‑0388.

What to do if nothing here is working for you

• Call the DMH Helpline 1‑877‑210‑8513 and ask for the Office of Consumer Support. They can troubleshoot access problems and log grievances.
• If you’re pregnant and can’t get care, contact your nearest DOM Regional Office (see numbers) and your clinic’s administrator the same day; ask about PEPW.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Mississippi Department of Mental Health, Mississippi Division of Medicaid, Mississippi State Department of Health, USDA/HRSA, and established nonprofits (NAMI Mississippi, Families as Allies). It follows our Editorial Standards and is updated and monitored regularly, but it is not affiliated with any agency and is not a substitute for official guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Corrections? Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll review within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

Programs change. Income limits, phone numbers, coverage rules, and clinic availability can shift between updates. Always verify critical details with the relevant agency before applying or attending an appointment.

Mental health content is for information only and not medical advice. In danger, call 911. For crisis support, call or text 988.

Security note: We link only to official government or established nonprofit websites. Still, use caution when sharing personal information online; apply through official Mississippi or federal portals or in person at listed offices.

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Sources (selected)

• Mississippi Division of Medicaid — Income limits (effective 3/1/2025); program groups; postpartum coverage; managed care contacts and 2025 plan changes; regional office directory.
• Mississippi Department of Mental Health — Helpline/OCS; 988; Mobile Crisis and Crisis Stabilization Units; CMHC directory.
• Mississippi State Department of Health — Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies; language access; domestic violence statewide resources.
• Federal timelines — 42 CFR §435.912 (Medicaid application timeliness).
• DMH substance use rules — 48‑hour priority for pregnant women.
• HRSA — Maternal Mental Health Hotline; Find a Health Center locator.
• Families as Allies (family support); NAMI Mississippi (support groups).
• Maternal mortality insights (MSDH news releases/reports).

If you find an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org — we fix urgent issues within 24 hours per our editorial policy.

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