How Crisis Text Line Can Help You

Crisis Text Line is the largest provider of a text-based crisis intervention service. This study examined the effectiveness of CTL’s work through an assessment of texters’ experiences with CCs, and their reported outcomes and characteristics.

Whether you are dealing with a big life change or just need someone to listen, you can find free and confidential support 24/7 through text. Text STEVE to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis Counselor.

Text HOME to 741741

Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States, and a volunteer Crisis Counselor will respond. They’ll help you move from a “hot moment” to feeling better (a “cool moment”).

Depending on your conversation’s pace, a counselor might ask you questions and provide emotional support. They may also offer resources and encouragement to take next steps. They’re trained to empathize with you, not interrogate you. They only pry if you seem like you’re in danger.

The service is completely free, though data usage will depend on your cell phone plan. People of all ages can use it. The service is available 24/7 throughout the US. There are also international affiliates. In Canada, teens can text TALK to 741741 for free, anonymous help. There’s a special keyword, STEVE, for young people of color to connect with a counselor through the Crisis Text Line.

Text Got5 to 741741

When you text HOME or HELP to the Crisis Text Line or National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a live volunteer crisis counselor will receive your message and respond. Then they will help you de-escalate the situation and connect you to local resources. They’re trained to empathize with you, not interrogate you. They will ask questions but will not pry. They will encourage you to discuss your options, weigh pros and cons, and choose what you want to do next.

The service is free, though standard messaging rates may apply. It’s also confidential — the crisis counselor won’t know your name or contact information, and you can continue to communicate anonymously.

In addition to the Crisis Text Line, there are a number of other affiliated services around the world. In the UK, for example, people can text SHOUT to 741741 to start a conversation with a counselor. And Kids Help Phone has a keyword, STEVE, that young people of color can use to talk to a crisis counselor.

Text Got5U to 741741

Busy schedules, a job, finances and maintaining a home and family can be challenging responsibilities for adults. You’re not alone if you ever feel overwhelmed and could use someone to text and talk about what’s weighing on you.

The free, anonymous service is available 24/7 and will connect you with a trained Crisis Counselor within minutes. Individuals can also connect with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or Crisis Text Line on Facebook Messenger, where they can message a counselor directly without being logged in to their personal profile.

The volunteers that respond to the crisis text lines are trained to de-escalate and help individuals move from a “hot moment” to a “cool calm.” They are there to listen and support people with whatever they’re struggling with. The conversations are confidential, but participants may be asked to share feedback via a short survey sent by text. Using the service does not cost anything, but standard messaging rates may apply depending on your mobile plan.

Text HELP to 741741

Text the word “HELP” to 741741, and within seconds you’ll be connected to a live Crisis Counselor. They will ask how they can help, and together you will work through your emotions at your own pace. You don’t have to share anything you’re not comfortable with, and you can text back and forth as often as you like.

The service is available in all US states and territories and the number will not show up on your phone bill. You can use it for any issue — it doesn’t have to be a crisis!

The Steve Fund has partnered with Crisis Text Line to promote the keyword STEVE, so young people of color can use the service to connect with a trained counselor. They are dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of students of color, especially those who experience emotional distress or are at risk. They know that these issues are not talked about enough and that young people need accessible and trusted resources.