Crisis Text Line is a free, 24/7 resource that provides support by texting with a trained specialist. Anyone in the US can access this service by texting “HOME” to 741741.
This study estimates the effectiveness of crisis chat interventions at reducing suicidality. It also investigates the relationship between symptomatic texters (those with high levels of depression, anxiety and social isolation) and their perceptions that CCs are genuinely concerned about them.
Free and anonymous
Helplines (also known as hotlines or crisis lines) provide immediate crisis counseling and emotional support, free of charge. They are staffed by volunteers who are trained in the specific challenges, risks and needs of those they serve.
The founders of Crisis Text Line saw a need for rapid-response crisis counseling that leverages the most prevalent communication medium in our lives, text messaging. They envisioned a service that would serve people in communities often underserved by traditional services.
It usually takes less than five minutes to be connected with a Crisis Counselor who will start by introducing themselves and asking how they can best support you. Then they will begin a back-and-forth texting conversation at your pace and invite you to share as much or as little as you are comfortable with. Typically, the counselor will try to help you get to a calm, safe place by asking questions, empathizing, and actively listening. They will also connect you to resources if necessary.
24/7
Crisis Text Line is available 24/7 for anyone who needs help coping with feelings of sadness, worry, loneliness or suicidal thoughts. It is safe and easy to use, even when you are alone.
It usually takes less than five minutes to connect with a counselor. They will introduce themselves and invite you to share at your own pace. They will help you sort through your feelings by asking questions, empathizing, and actively listening. The conversation typically ends when you and your counselor both feel like you are in a calm and safe place.
Depression is a common challenge many people face. New York State has partnered with Crisis Text Line to provide free, anonymous support through the service. To access the support, text “GOT5” or “GOT5U” (if you are a college student) to 741741. A trained Crisis Counselor will reply and help you through this difficult time. The service is available nationwide.
365 days a year
Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis Counselor. They’ll help you figure out what to do next in your hot moment, and they’ll listen without judgment.
Our community of volunteers is available to support you 24/7 — 365 days a year. But we’re not a replacement for your mental health care or the services of a doctor or therapist.
You can talk about anything you’re struggling with. But please don’t use the lines to promote religious matters or partisan politics, and don’t spam the lines.
If you are a Veteran or concerned about one, you can talk to someone specially trained to support you. It’s free and confidential, and you don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to call. Dial 988 then press 1, or text CONNECT to 741741. You can also access free crisis support during coronavirus pandemic at the Veterans Crisis Line. Text FRONTLINE to 741741. Shout and Kids Help Phone are also here to support you and your loved ones during this difficult time.
Text “Got5” to 741741
Busy class schedules, exams, student loans and maintaining a social life during a pandemic can be challenging for college students. If they are feeling down or stressed, they can text STEVE to 741741 and get connected to a trained crisis counselor.
Crisis Text Line was founded to meet the need for rapid-response crisis counseling by leveraging technology and the dominant communication medium of today: text messaging. Trained volunteers respond within minutes, 24/7, to help individuals de-escalate their situation and connect them with help locally.
Volunteers are trained to empathize with texters and ask questions in a way that encourages them to suss out their own solutions. They are instructed not to pry unless there is clear danger, but instead to encourage the individual to share at their own pace and offer options without giving advice. All conversations are anonymous and confidential. People can connect with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Crisis Text Line on Facebook as well.