Q&A with volunteer spokesperson JoLee Verville

Our dedicated volunteer spokespeople play a vital role in spreading the word about our critical service. By sharing their voices, stories, and passion for mental health, they help raise awareness, break down stigma, and ensure more people know that free, 24/7 support is just a text away. Their commitment extends our reach and strengthens our mission to be there for anyone in need.

Q: Can you share a bit about your mental health journey and how it has shaped who you are today?
A: I grew up in a household dominated by violence and instability, as my father struggled with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and alcoholism. This severely disrupted my thoughts throughout my childhood, and my mental health was characterized by insecurity, guilt, and shame. However, I developed a deep sensitivity to the unseen challenges others may be carrying and decided to lead with kindness, empathy, and compassion. Now in my twenties, my identity centers on love and support. While I still have darker days, I combat my negative thoughts with mindfulness, gratitude, and connection. My passion lies with being there for others, which inspires me to be there for myself.

Q: What challenges have you faced along the way, and how did you work through them?
A: Along the way, I’ve faced the challenge of carrying other people’s pain while still learning how to care for my own. I’m deeply drawn to work around mental health, trauma, and incarceration, but sitting with those realities can be heavy. I worked through this by learning to slow down, set boundaries, and ask for support when I needed it. Over time, I realized that showing up authentically and consistently doesn’t mean absorbing everything; it means staying present, empathetic, and dedicated to leaving the world better than I found it.

Q: How did you first hear about Crisis Text Line, and what inspired you to get involved with the organization?
A: I was looking for mental health volunteer opportunities on my university’s pre-health advising website, and Crisis Text Line was listed. I have always valued deep one-on-one conversations and understanding the unique experiences that have shaped the lives of others. Knowing that I would be able to provide emotional support and validation was incredibly motivating, and I knew I wanted to get involved with Crisis Text Line.

Q: Why did you choose to take on the role of a volunteer spokesperson?
A: I chose to be a volunteer spokesperson because I know how it feels to struggle internally and externally, with overbearing negative thoughts and despair. I wanted to have a voice to remind others that they are not alone; there are people who truly care, and every individual can always grow, change, and begin again. We are all human in this human experience, and our flaws and imperfections are a part of our stories. It’s okay not to be okay. All we can do is try, and that is a beautiful and worthy strength that everyone deserves recognition for.

Q: What message would you give to someone who is currently struggling but hesitant to reach out for help?
A: To those who are struggling but hesitant to reach out, you deserve to feel understood, validated, and supported. I know it can be scary to be vulnerable, but Crisis Text Line volunteers want to create a safe environment where you can open up judgment-free and truly feel cared for. When dealing with such heaviness, even getting out of bed in the morning is something to be proud of, and you are worthy of recognition and appreciation. You don’t have to carry this alone; we’re just a text away, and we would love to provide relief, whether that’s through safety planning, offering resources, or simply being someone you can vent to.

About JoLee Verville:

JoLee is currently a senior at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She is studying psychology on the pre-med track in pursuit of becoming a psychiatrist. She is from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, where she lived with her mom and younger brother. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, listening to music, dancing, swimming, and being in nature.

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If you are struggling and need support, text CONNECT to 741741 to be connected to a live, trained volunteer Crisis Counselor. We help people navigate tough moments by guiding them toward their own strengths and coping strategies. We meet people where they are; promoting mental well-being, one conversation at a time. 

Interested in volunteering? Join today and become part of our incredible community of dedicated volunteers.