Crisis Text Line serves anyone, in any type of crisis, providing access to free, 24/7 support via mediums people already use and trust. How Does it Work? Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer Crisis Counselor. Crisis doesn’t just mean thinking about ending your own life. It’s any painful emotion and anytime you need support. So, you reach out to a volunteer Crisis Counselor.
Your opening message can say anything. Keywords like “HOME,” “START” and “HELLO” just help us identify how people hear about us. The first two responses are automated. They tell you that you’re being connected with a Crisis Counselor and invite you to share a bit more.
A Crisis Counselor is a trained volunteer, not a professional. They can provide support, but not medical advice. It usually takes less than five minutes to connect you with a Crisis Counselor. The conversation typically ends when you and the Crisis Counselor both feel comfortable deciding that you’re in a “cool,” safe place.