Crisis text lines have emerged in response to texting becoming a dominant form of communication for youth and adults. They utilize empathetic active listening to help users move from “a hot moment” to a “cool calm” by collaboratively problem solving.
While this type of service is increasingly prominent with the launching of 988, little is known about who uses these services.
What is Crisis Text Line?
Crisis Text Line is a free, 24/7 mental health support service that connects individuals in distress with trained volunteer counselors. Founded in 2013, the nonprofit was the first text-based suicide prevention hotline and now serves people across the United States, United Kingdom and Ireland.
When someone texts HOME, they will receive two automated responses letting them know they’re being connected to a counselor and inviting them to share more at their own pace. Then, a trained crisis counselor will use empathetic listening and collaborative problem-solving skills to help the texter find calm and create an action plan to stay safe.
The service is free for anyone and it’s especially useful for those who can’t afford a therapist, don’t have access to transportation or live in remote areas, have trouble opening up in person, or have family members who would frown upon them seeing a therapist. The service also provides a unique experience for MSW students, who are required to complete 200-600 practicum hours as part of their degree program.
How can I use Crisis Text Line?
Text BRAVE to 741741 and you will be connected with a trained Crisis Counselor. The counselor will ask you to describe your current situation and help you create a safety plan. They will also work with you to get access to local resources. Crisis Text Line will alert emergency services only if you are in imminent danger of harming yourself or others.
Busy schedules, a job, finances and maintaining a home can all be challenging responsibilities for adults. Text HELP to 741741 for free, 24/7 support. You will be connected with a live, trained Crisis Counselor who will use empathetic listening to support you. They will help you move from a hot moment to cool calm by using effective active listening and suggested referrals.
You can also connect with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline through Facebook Messenger. You will be asked to provide your name and location, and the counselor will be able to ping your phone’s area code and geolocate you.
What are the benefits of using Crisis Text Line?
Crisis text lines expand access to mental health services by providing a safe and comfortable way for people to get help. For example, if talking on the phone exacerbates depression or anxiety for someone, texting allows them to communicate their feelings in a way that’s most comfortable for them. Additionally, if a person lives alone or is in public when they’re feeling depressed or suicidal, texting can ensure that nobody overhears their conversation and makes negative comments.
Volunteers at Crisis Text Line also benefit from their experience, as they report high levels of personal and professional satisfaction. Specifically, they report increased social connectedness and a stronger sense of purpose. In addition, their work has a profound impact on the communities that they serve.
How can I get involved with Crisis Text Line?
Becoming a Crisis Text Line volunteer is a great way to give back and get volunteer hours. It’s also a fantastic resume-building opportunity. Volunteers are trained as Crisis Counselors and work remotely using the organization’s platform to assist people who are in distress or having suicidal thoughts.
You can sign up for training by visiting the website. You will need to agree to a background check so that they can make sure you don’t have any history that would disqualify you from working as a counselor.
Once you are a volunteer, you can sign up for shifts through the platform. Shifts are usually 2 hours long, so you can easily fit them into your schedule. However, you should only work 2-3 shifts a week to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Also, try to stay away from politics, religion, and personal beliefs when talking to people on the phone. Keep in mind that the people you talk to will be in a vulnerable place and may not want to hear those types of conversations.