Stories from the Crisis Text Line Community
Chelsey – The Journey from Texter to Volunteer Crisis Counselor
The path from being in a place of mental health crisis to persevering and overcoming is often a challenging one that requires patience, acceptance, self-compassion, and empathic support. Below is the story of Chelsey’s inspirational journey, illustrating that there is hope for those who are in a dark place.
Chelsey’s story:
A few years ago, I found myself in the darkest place I’ve ever been. I was deep in a spiral— a full-blown breakdown triggered by devastating betrayal in my marriage. Living with borderline personality disorder, major depressive disorder, and complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), it felt like my mind was trying to outrun itself. Every day, I carried a weight no one could see. And eventually, it got too heavy.
One night, I reached the edge. I was overwhelmed by pain, hopelessness, and the feeling that I just couldn’t do it anymore. But in a moment of desperation, I made a decision that changed everything: I texted Crisis Text Line. That one message saved my life. On the other end was a calm, compassionate human who reminded me that I wasn’t alone. They held space for me without judgment. They didn’t try to fix me. They just listened, supported me, and reminded me that I still mattered— even when I couldn’t believe it myself.
The turning point that night wasn’t a cure-all, but it was the beginning— a crack in the darkness. I realized I didn’t want to die— I just didn’t want to live in that pain anymore. That moment helped me take the first tiny step toward healing. I enrolled in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and started learning how to sit with my emotions instead of running from them. I began to allow myself to ask for help. To cry. To scream. To feel. And to survive.
Crisis Text Line wasn’t just a lifeline— it became a compass. It gave me tools and hope, and eventually, the courage to step into a new role: volunteer Crisis Counselor. Now, I’m honored to be on the other side. I get to hold space for others in their darkest moments, just like someone did for me. I know what it’s like to feel broken, afraid, and alone. And I know the power of someone simply saying, “I’m here.”
Alongside that, I built a support system through therapy, trusted friends, and my own resilience. I started journaling, walking in nature, and practicing radical acceptance— sometimes that means taking my meds, setting boundaries, or simply surviving the day. Every bit of it counts, and healing isn’t linear. I still have tough days, and I still navigate the intense emotions that come with my diagnoses. But now, I meet them with tools, compassion, and the knowledge that I don’t have to do it alone. I’ve come a long way. I’m learning to be gentle with myself, to celebrate progress (even the smallest kind), and to ask for support without shame. I’m not at the end of my journey— but I’m proud to still be walking it.
To anyone struggling right now, please hear this: You are not alone. You are not too much. You are not broken. There is help, there is hope, and there is life on the other side of this pain.
Texting Crisis Text Line saved my life. Reaching out was one of the bravest things I’ve ever done— and I’m so grateful I did. If you’re struggling, please text CONNECT to 741741. There’s someone on the other side ready to listen, support, and walk with you—just like they did for me.
You are worthy of help. You are deserving of peace. And your story isn’t over yet.
XOXO, C
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If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need to reach out to someone, Crisis Text Line is here for you. Text CONNECT to 741741 to reach a volunteer Crisis Counselor. Free, confidential, 24/7.
Interested in sharing your story too? Each month, we will be posting stories from our community to help inspire and connect with others who may be going through similar experiences. Submit your story today! It can make a big difference in helping others feel seen, validated, and less alone.
