Crisis Text Line is a free, anonymous service where people can text to connect with trained Crisis Counselors. They can talk about anything that’s bothering them, including suicidal thoughts and abusive relationships.
This report analyzes data from 153,514 conversations in which a texter mentioned current or previous suicidality (2013-2017). It uses latent class analysis to explore themes across groups such as texters with symptomatic or less symptomatic distress.
Free and confidential
Crisis Text Line provides free support through 24/7 texting and messaging. This service allows callers to communicate with trained Crisis Counselors who are available to them anytime, anywhere. They can use the service to discuss any issue, including suicidal thoughts, abusive relationships, depression or anxiety.
The service is confidential and offers individuals the opportunity to work through their problems at their own pace. Its counselors are available to listen and to help them find resources in their community. They are not there to judge, lecture or offer medical advice. Rather, they help the individual identify their own needs and goals. They also empower them to take action to improve their situation. Emergency services are involved in less than 1% of crisis situations.
NFHS has partnered with the Crisis Text Line to encourage students to seek mental health support. To start a conversation, text GOT5 to 741741, or Got5U to 741741, if you are a student at one of the partnering colleges and universities.
24 hours a day
In addition to its national telephone number, Crisis Text Line offers a texting hotline for people in crisis. It is available 24/7 in English and Spanish. The service is free to use, though standard messaging rates apply.
The service works by connecting volunteers with people in need of help. Volunteers receive training on how to support a person in crisis. They are also asked not to inject their personal beliefs into the conversations they have with texters. This is because the service focuses on empathy and innovation, not politics or religion.
A person in a mental health crisis can text BRAVE to 741741. This will connect them with a trained Crisis Counselor. The counselor will help the texter de-escalate their situation and create a safety plan. They will then refer them to local resources. They will not contact emergency services unless there is a danger of harm or the texter is unable to separate themselves from their means of self-harm.
365 days a year
When someone is in crisis, they can text 741741. A live counselor will respond and help them move from a hot moment to a cool calm. They will also help them find resources and make safe plans. The service is free and anonymous. It’s available 365 days a year and is easy to use.
To become a Crisis Text Line volunteer, visit their website and click on “volunteer.” Then, complete the application. Once accepted, you’ll be matched with a coach who will guide you through training. The process takes six weeks or less.
In 2021, volunteers at Crisis Text Line had 1.3 million conversations with individuals in distress. Data from those conversations paints a picture of a generation in crisis. Anxiety is high during the COVID-19 pandemic, and many people are struggling to manage it. Volunteers at Crisis Text Line have a unique opportunity to be the voice of empathy in America. They are not allowed to promote religious matters or partisan politics.
Texting is a great way to get help
Whether you’re a business owner or a therapist, effective communication is essential to your success. Text messaging can be an easy, efficient way to communicate with your clients and employees. In fact, some people find it easier to communicate through text than email or phone calls.
If you’re struggling with depression or feeling suicidal, Crisis Text Line can help. All you have to do is text “GOT5” or “GOT5U” to 741741 and a crisis counselor will respond. The service is free and confidential.
Although many therapists use texting as part of their treatment plans, some worry it may undermine the doctor-patient relationship and erode professional boundaries. Others say millennials already use texting with their friends, so why not with their therapists? However, if you are experiencing a mental health crisis or feeling unsafe, call 911. Emergency services are involved in less than 1% of the crises handled by Crisis Text Line. This is because the goal is to de-escalate and connect texters with local resources.