Helping to Save Student’s Lives–Crisis Text Line 741741 Now Printed on Student ID Cards in Nine States

There’s a youth mental health crisis in America. And, some states are stepping up to make it easier for students to get free mental health support right in the palm of their hands. At the beginning of each school year, students are issued a school ID card to be utilized for everything school related such as buying lunch, entering school dances and receiving school discounts. Now, student IDs in many states will also offer a constant reminder of where to turn for help if they’re struggling to cope. 

Crisis Text Line was able to influence positive social change in the mental health space by adding its number – 741741– on the back of student ID cards under state laws in the following nine states: 

  • The Delaware State Law went into effect Aug 4, 2022.
  • The New Hampshire State Law went into effect July 31, 2022.
  • The South Carolina State Law went into effect July 1, 2022.
  • The Wisconsin State Law went into effect July 1, 2022.
  • The Washington State Law went into effect July 1, 2022.
  • The Oklahoma State Law went into effect March 15, 2022.
  • The Illinois State Law went into effect July 23, 2021.
  • The Texas State Law went into effect May 2021.
  • The California State Law went into effect July 1, 2019.

Having quick access to crisis counselors at a moment’s notice can help students work through their stress, anger or feelings of hopelessness. By having these numbers on their student ID, students have a daily reminder that they can text 741741 to reach a volunteer Crisis Counselor—free, 24/7.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), in 2021, more than a third (37%) of high school students reported they experienced poor mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, and 44% reported they persistently felt sad or hopeless during the past year. 

At Crisis Text Line, we understand that school can be extremely overwhelming– this is why we recently launched a free mental health school supplies toolkit for students. From grounding and breathing videos to step-by-step tools to create a mental health crisis plan to tips for discussing your mental health with parents and friends, the toolkits offer interactive coping tools, tips, and resources that students can use year-round. 

Together, we can help every student in the country unlock the tools to prioritize their mental wellbeing.  

Looking to bring Crisis Text Line to your school? Print these posters for your campus so your community knows how to reach out for help.

In a crisis?

Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer Crisis Counselor

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