Crisis Text Line is a nonprofit offering free, 24/7 counseling via text message. The organization also creates Loris, a digital campaigning nonprofit for politically-engaged young people. Both entities share the same CEO, Nancy Lublin.
Using a keyword such as STEVE to connect with a trained Crisis Counselor at any time is free and confidential. CCs are able to provide support for a range of issues such as self-harm, anxiety and depression.
Free and confidential
Helplines (also called crisis lines or hotlines) provide immediate crisis counseling and emotional support – for free. They also connect people with local resources. Helplines are accessible by phone, online chat or text message.
Whether you’re in a mental health emergency or a suicidal crisis, there is always someone here to talk to. They’ll listen without judgment and offer a judgement-free space for you to work through your problems and find the help you need.
Crisis Counselors are trained to focus on empowering you and helping you problem-solve, meaning they’ll only call 911 in the rarest of cases. They’ll never discredit what you’re going through because they know that a crisis is personal to each person. If it’s a crisis to you, it is a crisis for them. To get started, just text 741741. Then, a Crisis Counselor will respond and you can start a conversation at your own pace. They’ll ask you questions, empathize with you and actively listen.
24/7
Whether you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or just need someone to listen, helplines (also known as crisis lines) can be a lifeline. They are free, anonymous, and confidential. They can be accessed through phone, text, or online chat. They offer a judgment-free space to talk through your feelings, connect you with local resources, and help you work toward a safer, healthier future.
If you or someone you know needs help, text HOPE to 741-741 to get connected with a trained Crisis Counselor. You can also contact a counselor through Facebook Messenger. Crisis counselors can help you de-escalate a crisis, provide information and resources, and connect you with emergency services as needed. They adhere to AAS and HIPPA guidelines, and they will never share any of your confidential information unless you give them consent or indicate that you are actively suicidal or attempting self-harm. Crisis counseling is available 24/7 — no matter what time of day or night it is.
365 days a year
People in crisis face many challenges: balancing work, home life and responsibilities, navigating illness and injury, dealing with trauma, addiction, housing or financial problems, or simply feeling alone. Sometimes, those feelings can be overwhelming and lead to thoughts of suicide. Fortunately, help is available.
Texting home to 741741 will connect you with a trained Crisis Counselor who can listen and offer emotional support via text. After two automated responses (the first telling you that you’re being connected with a counselor, and the second inviting you to share if you want to), you can text back and forth with your assigned Counselor at your own pace.
The study aims to evaluate CTL’s effectiveness by assessing texters’ perceptions of the conversation as helpful and their feelings of hopefulness, relief and less depressed, overwhelmed and suicidal at the end of the conversation. It also examines the relationship of these outcomes with texters’ personal characteristics and their perceived level of engagement with their CCs, crucial elements to person-centered care.
Powered by volunteers
You can apply to become a Crisis Text Line volunteer by visiting their website. Once you have been accepted, you will receive training that is done online and over the phone. After you are trained, you will be assigned to a shift on their platform. Shifts are 2 hours each and are typically scheduled a few days in advance. You can also work more than one shift a week, but it is important to take care of your own mental health and don’t work too many shifts.
Unlike some other hotlines, Crisis Text Line doesn’t ask callers to share their name or other personal information. It’s important to remember that the person on the other end of the line is a trained, caring volunteer who has your best interests at heart. They will try to help you de-escalate and connect with local resources. They will only recommend emergency services if it is necessary.