Throughout the world, the Crisis Text Line operates a free mental health texting service. Crisis Text Line is a global not-for-profit organization that provides confidential crisis intervention via SMS text message. The service is available around the clock in the US, Canada, the UK, and Ireland. Its mission is to provide a place where people can talk to someone who can help them get through a crisis. To help people in need, the Crisis Text Line provides resources and tools to cope with life’s difficulties.
This free, 24/7 service offers access to a trained crisis counselor who can answer questions about their situation, offer support, and offer guidance. While a crisis doesn’t have to be life-threatening, it is nonetheless a serious concern that requires immediate assistance. For this reason, the state of New York has partnered with the Crisis Text Line to improve access to crisis counseling for youth of color. By using this service, people can text an anonymous message to get immediate help.
The Crisis Text Line partners with youth-serving organizations and mental health experts to provide a 24-hour hotline. The program has received widespread recognition and has been named a finalist for the Nokia Health Award. Using the Crisis Text Line is free, although standard messaging charges may apply. The number will also not work for all cell phone carriers. In these situations, responders can make their text message resource known to disaster survivors. They can send a text message to 741741.
The State University of New York has a new mental health resource page, including a Crisis Text Line. Students can text “Got5U” or any other word to get help. The line is an anonymous service to deal with emotional challenges, substance use, and relationship problems. Students can even text in to talk about domestic violence, substance use, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The number is free, anonymous, and confidential, so it is a great resource for SUNY students and staff alike.
In addition to the Crisis Text Line, users can also reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline through Facebook Messenger. While the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline uses the same Facebook messenger platform, it offers a chat service as a separate entity. It does not offer a live operator, but you can message a counselor through their website. However, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline does have different communication policy. You may be required to submit a form before you can speak with a counselor.