Crisis Text Line is a free 24/7 service that provides people in crisis with emotional support and resources via text message. Anyone in the US can access this service by texting REACH to 741-741.
Please note that Crisis Text Line is not intended to replace a doctor or therapist. If you need immediate help, call 911 or go to the emergency room.
What is the Crisis Text Line?
Since launching in 2013, Crisis Text Line has served millions of people in the US who have experienced a mental health or substance use crisis. The service is free, 24/7 and available by texting HOME to 741741.
The goal of the program is to help individuals de-escalate their situation and connect them with resources in their area. The majority of conversations do not involve suicidal thoughts and less than 1% result in emergency services dispatch.
While the majority of conversations revolve around mental health or substance use, counselors can discuss any issue with a caller. They are trained to empathize with their listeners and encourage them to take the next step that is right for them. This may include a referral to mental health services, practicing a difficult conversation with a loved one, or finding out more about local resources. It may also involve a commitment to follow-up with those services. Our results are consistent with the recent movement in the field to focus on connecting hotlines to existing mental health and crisis care services.
How can I contact the Crisis Text Line?
If you’re in crisis, or if you know someone who is, text HOME to 741741. Within minutes, a trained Crisis Counselor will respond. You can then begin a back-and-forth texting conversation with them, at your own pace. They’ll share resources, ask questions, and listen. The goal is to get you to a calm, safe place. They can even help you navigate getting further help, if necessary.
The service is anonymous and free, though standard messaging rates may apply depending on your plan and provider. It’s available 24/7, and the counselors will work with you at your pace. They don’t judge or pressure you to talk about anything, and they won’t tell anyone else your situation.
For young people of color who are experiencing distress or suicidal thoughts, the Steve Fund has partnered with Crisis Text Line to provide the keyword STEVE to 741741. A trained Crisis Counselor will then respond and connect you with other resources to help.
How can I become a volunteer Crisis Counselor?
For those looking to make a positive impact in the community and help those in need, crisis counselors offer a great opportunity to do so. These individuals provide compassion and assistance to people who are struggling, which can be a big relief for them and their loved ones.
To become a volunteer crisis counselor, visit the website of the organization you would like to work with and click on the “volunteer” button. Complete an application and submit it as required by the agency.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Crisis Text Line both have volunteer opportunities that allow you to work from home. After completing 34 hours of training, you can log into your account and communicate with people via text to help them work through their crisis and access resources in their area. This can be a great option for those who don’t have the time or energy to commit to a full-time position.
What are the benefits of volunteering with the Crisis Text Line?
Crisis Text Line is a free, 24/7 mental health support service. They help people who are struggling with any type of crisis, including suicidal ideation, depression, loneliness, relationships issues, financial problems, and housing concerns. They also offer support for those who have been affected by disasters and covid-19.
Volunteers who have completed training report notable interpersonal benefits that go beyond their experiences on the platform: feeling more connected to other people in their communities, feeling a greater sense of purpose, and confirming humanitarian values like respect for diversity. Two thirds of volunteers reported using skills they learned to care for themselves and others, and to de-escalate tense situations.
Crisis counselors are trained to respond in a way that is most helpful for the person who is reaching out. In less than 1% of cases, they will alert emergency services to help de-escalate the situation and help the person create an action plan to stay safe.