Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support through a back and forth texting conversation with a trained Crisis Counselor. You can use the service to talk about anything that’s weighing on you, including suicidal thoughts.
In less than 1% of conversations, a counselor will work with you to connect you with emergency services. Otherwise, the goal is to de-escalate your situation and provide you with resources to help you.
Free and confidential
When people call or text 988, they will be connected with a highly trained specialist who can provide free, confidential and anonymous crisis counseling, support and resources. Behavioral health professionals can offer help with issues such as depression, anxiety and substance use. They can also offer suicide prevention services and best practices for responding to disasters.
Volunteer counselors are taught to empathize with people in distress, rather than interrogate them. They ask questions to encourage the person to talk more about their situation, but they don’t push for specifics. Counselors will ask if the person is thinking about self-harm or suicide, but only if it’s clear that they are in immediate danger.
Anyone in the United States can text “HOME” to 741741, and a volunteer Crisis Counselor will begin a conversation with them. The counselor can help them deescalate their situation and identify the best way to seek care locally. In less than 1% of conversations, the counselor will alert emergency services.
24/7
A growing number of crisis lines offer texting support as well as phone advice. These services can be a lifesaver for people dealing with issues like depression, anxiety or a breakup. They are also useful for those struggling with suicidal thoughts or who simply need someone to talk to.
At Crisis Text Line, trained volunteers known as “Crisis Counselors” are available 24/7 to provide crisis support through text message. They work with texters to de-escalate the situation, help them find resources in their community, and create a safety plan if needed. Emergency services are only notified in less than 1% of crisis situations.
The service is free to use, though standard messaging rates may apply. And it’s not just for adults: Kids can also get help by texting KIDS to 741741. Alternatively, they can call Kids Help Phone or chat with a counselor at The Trevor Project, which provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) youth.
365 days a year
Busy schedules, finances, responsibilities and caring for kids or loved ones can leave adults feeling overwhelmed. During these times, crisis lines can offer support and resources.
People can text REACH to 741 741 to connect with a trained volunteer Crisis Counselor. Crisis counselors are trained to provide emotional and behavioral support. They are not able to respond to medical emergencies, however.
When individuals reach a Counselor, the first two responses are automated: one tells them they are being connected and the other invites them to share at their own pace. The individual will then text back and forth with their assigned Counselor.
Crisis counselors receive a rigorous training program that prepares them to use the unique skills needed for crisis intervention over text. This work shapes the lives of volunteers, their relationships and their communities. It also helps them take better care of their own mental health.
Text STEVE to 741741
Working, taking care of a family or living in a housing crisis can be overwhelming. Texting STEVE can connect you with a trained counselor to help talk through what’s going on, and help you access help locally.
You will receive two automated responses: one letting you know you are being connected with a Counselor, and the other inviting you to share more. The Counselor will listen empathetically and without judgement, and will help you de-escalate your situation and connect you to resources if needed.
You don’t have to say much to get started. There is no wrong way to text a Crisis Counselor, and you will never be asked your name or any other identifying information. The service is free, but standard messaging rates apply based on your mobile plan. You can also connect with a crisis line through Facebook Messenger by messaging BRAVE, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or Kids Help Phone. These services are open 24/7 and can help you find help near you.