A crisis text message may not be the best medium for dealing with a mental health problem, but it can be a valuable tool for identifying local resources. For example, a crisis text line can help parents practice tough conversations with their children and encourage them to seek professional help. The Crisis Text Line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and can respond to texts within five minutes, on average. The Crisis Text Line’s staff members are trained to be available around the clock and will do everything in their power to respond to messages as quickly as possible.
Despite being a 24/7, anonymous text line, a crisis can strike at any time, even during the night. There’s no need to worry about the privacy of the caller – the crisis text line’s operators ensure anonymity. If someone you know is experiencing an emotional or mental crisis, you can text Crisis Text Line to get help from a trained crisis counselor. Texting the service is free, anonymous, and confidential.
The Crisis Text Line’s Counselors practice active listening to help people in distress. They’re trained to help individuals move from a hot moment to a cool, calm state. The only requirement for use of the Crisis Text Line is that the caller has a cell phone. Texting “HOME” to 741741 will connect a counselor with a trained crisis specialist who will offer assistance. Survivors can also text “I am in crisis” to the number to get the help they need.
The Crisis Text Line was founded in 2013 and now has over 100 million texts exchanged with trained mental health counselors. More than 30 percent of those messages were about depression and suicide. This is a remarkable achievement. The service helps people in crisis and empowers the community. It’s a great place to start for anyone who is struggling with a mental health crisis. With the help of trained crisis counselors, people can find the help they need and recover from their suffering.