Crisis Text Line is the largest crisis text service in the country. Volunteers with the nonprofit service are trained to empathize and help people navigate a difficult time in their lives.
This is a fantastic organization to work for, they have great supervisors and a wonderful training program. It’s an honor to volunteer and you learn a lot about empathy from the experience.
Text STEVE to 741741
Text STEVE to 741741 and you’ll be connected with a trained Crisis Counselor who can listen, offer support, and help you problem-solve. Crisis counselors can help you identify local resources, create a safety plan, and call emergency services if necessary.
Taking the first step to reach out for help can be one of the hardest and bravest things you do. Our empathetic and compassionate volunteer Crisis Counselors are here to help you through tough moments, 24/7.
The Steve Fund and Crisis Text Line are a natural match—the Fund brings research on young people of color to support the resource, strategic partnerships with colleges and universities, and programming expertise to help drive its impact. Promote this resource through your website, student publications and newsletters (and use recurring ad space!), and during freshman orientation. You can also hang posters on campus, distribute materials in community centers and clinics, and put stickers on campus bathrooms, lockers, and classroom doors. Activate relevant campus groups (student government, peer resource groups, mental health clubs) to serve as volunteer ambassadors and raise awareness through flyering and events.
Text GOT5 to 741741
If you’re struggling and want to talk, text GOT5 to 741741. You’ll be connected with a trained Crisis Counselor who can help de-escalate your situation and connect you to help locally.
This is a safe space to text about anything—whether it’s a rough patch, feelings of depression, or even suicidal thoughts. And, just like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, there’s a counselor on the other end of the line who won’t judge you and is here to listen.
If you’re not comfortable talking on the phone, a trained counselor can also connect with you through Facebook Messenger. Facebook’s security and privacy policies protect your identity when communicating with a suicide prevention hotline through the platform. You can learn more about this service by visiting their website.
Text GOT5U to 741741
Whether you’re struggling with depression or you know someone who is, talking to your doctor is an important step. Depression is a mental health condition that can be treated with medication, therapy, or other support services.
Busy class schedules, exams, student loans and maintaining a social life can all be challenging responsibilities for college students. If you or someone you know could use some support, text GOT5U to 741741.
You’ll receive two automated responses that tell you that you’re being connected with a Counselor and invite you to share more at your own pace. The Crisis Counselors on the line are volunteers, so they’ll never ask you to do or say anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.
Remember, communication with the Crisis Line over Facebook Messenger is encrypted and anonymous, so you can’t be tracked by others. And, you can send the link to anyone who might need it. This is a safe and effective way to help people in distress.
Text HOME to 741741
Crisis Text Line is a free, 24/7 crisis support service for people experiencing any type of crisis. Individuals can text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States to connect with a trained volunteer Crisis Counselor who will help them de-escalate their situation and identify options for seeking help locally.
It’s important to note that if an individual is in immediate danger of harming themselves or someone else, they should text 911 immediately. However, emergency services are dispatched for less than 1% of crises.
Many individuals use Crisis Text Line because they are struggling with stress or depression, and may not be aware of resources in their community. To help, we encourage everyone to share this information about the free, nationwide resource. This is one way we can help to #BeTheChange. The more we share, the more lives we can save! Thank you.