Crisis Text Line

Mission:
Crisis Text Line provides free, confidential, 24/7 mental health support and crisis intervention via text message and web chat for individuals in the United States, including Louisa County, VA residents. The organization is dedicated to helping people move from moments of crisis to a state of calm and safety through empathetic listening and collaborative problem-solving.

Services Offered:

• 24/7 Crisis Support: Individuals can text 741741 (text HOME or HELLO) to connect with a live, trained volunteer Crisis Counselor at any time, day or night.
• Web Chat: Support is also available through a secure web chat platform for those who prefer to use a computer or other chat-based devices.
• WhatsApp Access: For those unable to use SMS, support is available via WhatsApp.
• Bilingual Support: Services are available in both English and Spanish.
• Support for a Range of Issues: Assistance is provided for anxiety, bullying, depression, eating disorders, emotional abuse, financial stress, grief, gun violence, loneliness, relationships, self-harm, suicide, and more.

How It Works:

• Upon texting, individuals are quickly connected to a live, trained Crisis Counselor who uses active listening and collaborative problem-solving to help the texter develop a plan to stay safe.
• Crisis Counselors are rigorously trained and supervised volunteers, overseen by staff with advanced degrees or crisis intervention experience.
• Confidentiality is strictly maintained, with information only shared when necessary for safety or legal reasons.
• The service is not a replacement for long-term therapy but provides immediate, in-the-moment support and referrals as needed.

Eligibility and Service Area:

• Services are available to anyone in the United States and Puerto Rico, regardless of age, background, or location. There are no eligibility restrictions, and Louisa County residents are fully eligible to use all services.

Additional Programs:

• Volunteer Opportunities: Individuals can apply to become Crisis Counselors, with comprehensive training and supervision provided.
• Student Learning Practicum: Opportunities for students to gain experience in crisis intervention.
• Campus Advocates and Mental Health Changemakers: Programs to promote mental health awareness and advocacy.

Accreditation:

• Crisis Text Line is accredited by the International Council for Helplines (ICH), ensuring adherence to best practices and high ethical standards in crisis intervention.

Cost:

• The service is free for users. Texts to 741741 are free on major carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon); standard rates may apply for other carriers.

For immediate support, individuals can text HOME to 741741 or use the web chat feature on the organization's website.