Crisis Text Line is a free, anonymous text-based crisis support service. The organization uses technology and volunteers to connect people in emotional distress with trained Crisis Counselors.
This study analyzed data from 85,877 CTL conversations in which texters reported suicidality. Using latent class analysis, we found distinct classes of texters with varying psychosocial issues.
What is the Crisis Text Line?
Crisis Text Line is a free, 24/7 resource that provides support during a mental health crisis. Individuals in the United States can access the service by texting HOME to 741741. Crisis Text Line volunteer Crisis Counselors will respond empathetically and compassionately.
They will ask questions to help clarify and validate your thoughts, feelings and experiences. They will also help you identify a safety plan and connect you with local resources. They will alert emergency services only if they believe you are at risk of harming yourself or others.
In addition to providing a lifeline for individuals in a mental health crisis, Crisis Text Line volunteers are trained to have a deep and meaningful conversation. They share that volunteering for Crisis Text Line has shaped their lives, strengthened their relationships to others and taught them how to better care for their own mental health. This work was made possible through the support of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Crisis Text Line.
How can I use the Crisis Text Line?
If you’re in crisis, text BRAVE to 741741. A trained Crisis Counselor will respond to your text within minutes and can help de-escalate the situation and connect you to resources. Whether it’s about suicidal thoughts, school stress or a family issue, they will listen without judgment. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or talk to a counselor through Facebook Messenger.
Crisis counselors are taught to empathize with the person in crisis rather than interrogate them, says Raja. “A statement like, ‘I’m so sorry you’re having such a hard time’ can be as effective as asking a lot of questions.” They rarely give advice and encourage the texter to suss out their own solutions. They only pry if the person appears to be in danger, and they will send a text alerting emergency services in that case.
After every conversation, volunteers are asked to complete a report and a voluntary texter survey. The research shows that, on average, nearly half of suicidal texters are less suicidal after their conversations, which is comparable to the improvement seen after psychotherapy.
What happens when I text the Crisis Text Line?
Crisis counselors are trained to empathize with people and are instructed not to interrogate them. They ask how the person is doing and if they need help finding resources, but they don’t ask questions like “How are you feeling right now?” and ”Do you have plans to hurt yourself?”
People of all ages can use the service. They don’t have to share their name or any identifying information with the counselors. They may be asked to text back or respond to a survey. The conversations are free, but standard messaging rates apply.
The researchers analyzed anonymized and de-identified CC reports and voluntary texters’ surveys from Crisis Text Line conversations with 10 or more messages over a one-year period. Symptom levels and frequency were high in many of the texts, and most people in these conversations were distressed enough to have thoughts of suicide. Nearly half of these texters reported feeling less suicidal at the end of their CTL conversation, which is comparable to improvement in suicide risk seen among people who receive psychotherapy.
How do I get help from the Crisis Text Line?
Text “REACH” to 741-741 from anywhere in the US to get connected with a trained Crisis Counselor. This service is free, though standard messaging rates may apply based on your phone plan.
After two automated responses, the counselor will introduce themselves and invite you to share at your own pace. They will listen, empathetically, and ask questions to better understand your situation. They can also provide resources for further support, but they will never give medical advice. The goal of the conversation is to get you to a calm, safe place.
Many people struggle with mental health issues. They often feel alone or overwhelmed with their responsibilities. Busy schedules, a job, finances, and maintaining a home can be exhausting for adults. It’s no wonder that over 100 million text messages have been processed through Crisis Text Line.