As many of you know, I’m a volunteer Crisis Counselor with the Crisis Text Line, a free service where anyone can text in to get support when they are experiencing a crisis. I’m happy to share that Crisis Text Line is partnering with the Governor’s office and other Washington state organizations to help spread the word about this life-saving, free service.

Did you know: Washington State is above the national average suicide rate with one person dying by suicide every 8 hours in Washington State and suicide is the first leading cause of death for ages 10-14. (Source: AFSP) Crisis Text Line offer people the opportunity to text in for confidential, free support, 24 hours a day.  If you are in the state of Washington and are experiencing a crisis, you can text HEAL to 741741 to be connected to a trained Crisis Counselor.

“We are excited to work with the Governor’s office and organizations across the State of Washington to empower and support those in crisis and provide the comfort of knowing we are right in your back pocket,” said Nancy Lublin CEO and Founder of Crisis Text Line.

LAUNCH PARTNERS ● The City of Tacoma + Tacoma bridges  ● Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction ● Now Matters Now  ● Washington State Dept. of Health coming soon!

GET INVOLVED ● If you’re in crisis, text HEAL to 741741 for crisis support in WA State ● Become a volunteer Crisis Counselor at crisistextline.org/volunteer. ● Learn how your organization, company, or school can get involved, reach out to sarah@crisistextline.org.

When you are a volunteer Crisis Counselor, you get amazing free training, are supported by other crisis counselors and a shift supervisor when on your shift in the chat rooms, and communicate with texters via your computer (your thumbs won’t get so tired that way). If you are at all interested in this, feel free to message me directly (fb.com/keridwyn) if you have any questions that the website doesn’t answer. This service NEEDS more volunteer crisis counselors and it will likely be one of the most fulfilling things you do with your time. After all, studies show that a certain amount of volunteer time per week adds an incredible amount of satisfaction and contentment to your life!

WHAT WASHINGTON LEADERS ARE SAYING:

“Crisis Text Line is a critical support program that could save lives and will be a crucial lifeline to those who need help and support,” Washington Governor Jay Inslee said. “This innovative program, through free, 24/7 support, utilizes existing technology and resources efficiently. With Crisis Text Line, Washington state will have an additional tool to help those in crisis.”

“Crisis Text Line is a go-to resource I share in my work in construction safety. Crisis Text Line is an indispensable aid in helping people in times of crisis. We use Crisis Text Line at the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention. Thank you for your life-saving service,” said Cal Beyer, Director of Risk Management, Lakeside Industries (Issaquah, WA) – Executive Committee; National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention

“NowMattersNow.org visitors have initiated conversation with Crisis Text Line over 10 thousand times. We feel confident that our users are getting support right away. We couldn’t do it without you Crisis Text Line,” said Ursula Whiteside, CEO of NowMattersNow.org.

ABOUT CRISIS TEXT LINE. Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7, confidential crisis support via text. Learn more at crisistextline.org.