If you or someone you know needs mental-health services, the first place to turn is your county or regional mental- health office. The offices are required to have 24-hour hot lines to answer questions about mental-health services and to advise people in emergencies.

IN WAKE COUNTY, the 24-hour numbers are (866) 518-6784 and 250-3133. The customer support center, at 212-7000, answers calls from 8:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Monday through Friday.

IN DURHAM COUNTY, call (800) 510-9132 or 560-7100.

IN ORANGE, PERSON AND CHATHAM, call 913-4100 or (800) 233-6834.

IN JOHNSTON COUNTY, call 989-5500 or (888) 815-8934.

IN FRANKLIN COUNTY, call (877) 619-3761.