In this blog I toss you a challenge…to add the four suicide prevention resources included in this blog post as a contact in your phone. You may be wondering, “Why would I even do this?” Well, many people have expressed that they wish they would have known about a resource or had been able to share it with someone who needed help, but they didn’t have it available at their fingertips. Protip: It’s much easier to share a contact than have to research a resource in the middle of a crisis situation.
Below you’ll find four suicide prevention resources and a brief description about how each can support an individual in need.
Suicide Prevention Lifeline: a lifeline that provides 24/7/365 free and confidental support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you and your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Call 1-800-273-8255 to access services. A chat function is also available online at suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
Crisis Text Line: a text line that is available globally 24/7/365 for individuals who are feeling anxious, depressed or suicidal, dealing with the urge to self-harm or are experiencing any other feelings that they need help with. To access the text line in the USA individuals can text “VOICE” to 741741. Initially, the individual will get an automated text message asking for more detail about their crisis and then they are connected with a crisis counselor. It can take some time to be connected depending on how many people are reaching out at that moment, but it’s important to know that there is someone on the other end that is willing and wanting to talk.
The Trevor Project: a crisis service for LGBT* youth under 25 that is comprised of the TrevorLifeline (a crisis intervention and suicide prevention phone service available 24/7/365; 1-866-488-7386), TrevorChat (confidential online instant messaging with a counselor 24/7/365 via computer; thetrevorproject.org) and TrevorText (confidential text messaging with a counselor, available 24/7/365; text “START” to 678678). In addition, TrevorSpace is a social networking site for LGBTQ* youth under 25 as well as their friends and allies. This social platform helps to build community, connection and support; helping to foster connectedness and create purpose in an individual’s life. This platform is extremely unique as it reaches beyond the initial crisis contact and provides an ongoing safe space for youth to socialize.
2NDFLOOR: a helpline that youth 10-24 can call or text when facing any type of issue or problem 24/7/365. 2NDFLOOR is an anonymous and confidential helpline specialized in meeting the needs of youth in crisis. 2NDFLOOR can help with any life situation whether it be at home, school or anywhere. 1-888-222-2228.
Always remember that these resources are here and that there are people that are willing and wanting to speak to individuals that need help. If you ever believe that someone is in immediate danger or you feel that you cannot keep yourself safe, call 911 or go to your local emergency room to access in-person crisis support.
If you have any questions about any resources in this blog post or other available resources please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I’m here and ready to support you!
What if I Want Help?
I am a New Jersey based counselor that specializes in treating youth (14+) and adults in the aftermath of a traumatic event to learn how to effectively cope and begin the healing process by working toward their personalized treatment goals. I also specialize in counseling those in the LGBT* community and those living with sexual issues. If you would like a partner in your recovery journey, please book a complimentary 15-minute consultation or first appointment through the client portal or contact me at [email protected] or (908) 248-2762.
“Resilience is based on compassion for ourselves as well as compassion for others.” -Sharon Salzberg