PeerGalaxy Original Calendar
Welcome to PeerGalaxy Calendar featuring over 336,800+ monthly offerings of FREE telephone- and online-accessible peer support, recovery support, and wellness activities! Plus 50+ warmlines, helplines, chatlines, and hotlines. Plus workshops, webinars, job postings, resources, observances, special events, consumer input opportunities and more.
WE ARE PEER FOR YOU!
Click the Accessibility Button on the right side, halfway down in the middle, for enhanced viewing and/or access options! Click the Translate Button in the lower left corner for language options.
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If you have an event to add, email us: [email protected]
Training Opportunities in July 2020
List Provided Courtesy of State of Oregon, Oregon Health Authority
Click here to download PDF Format, 16 pages
Calendar Event Sorting
At the top, the 24/7/365 SAMHSA Disaster Helpline and similar links.
Next, Bundled “All Day” Events
Some organizations (like 12 step recovery programs, AA, NA, AlAnon, etc.) have so many events happening throughout the day that they need to be in a bundled listing to spare endless scrolling. Often there is a link to look up events by zip code and other criteria.
Lastly, Time-Specific Events
So you can see what’s happening in the next hours, time specific events are tagged and listed by start time from 12:01am early morning to 11:59pm late night. There can be events and warmlines operating in different time zones, though we try to list all in Oregon’s Pacific Time Zone.
Page Advancement
The calendar displays ~50 listings per page. To advance to next page with ~50 more listings, click the right arrow in the lower left corner of the calendar
If you need to talk, the 988 Lifeline is here.
At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.
What to Expect
Calling the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when making a call to the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 5
First, you’ll hear a message that gives you service selection options.
Listen to the pre-recorded message (mp3).
Step 2 of 5
We’ll play some hold music while you are connected to a counselor with our Spanish-language, LGBTQI+ services, or your local 988 Lifeline contact center. For veterans, the phone will ring until a counselor can answer your call.
Step 3 of 5
A counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 4 of 5
Your skilled counselor will ask you if you are safe.
Step 5 of 5
After they ask about your safety, your counselor will listen to you, understand how your problem is affecting you, provide support, and share any resources that may be helpful.
Chatting with the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when starting a chat with the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 6
After clicking “Chat With Us,” a new window with a brief survey will open. This survey helps our counselors understand how to best support you and takes less than 5 minutes to complete.
Step 2 of 6
When you click “Start a Chat”, you are accepting our Terms of Service.
Step 3 of 6
You will then see a screen that indicates we are connecting you to a counselor.
Step 4 of 6
A counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 5 of 6
Your skilled counselor will ask if you are safe.
Step 6 of 6
After they ask about your safety, they will be calm and comforting, listen to you, and provide support. They may also share helpful resources.
Texting with the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when texting the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 7
When you send a text to 988, you will be given options to connect with a counselor from the Veterans, Spanish-language, LGBTQI+ service, or the main 988 Lifeline.
Step 2 of 7
When you text “next” you will be accepting our Terms of Service.
Step 3 of 7
You will then need to complete a brief survey to help your counselor understand how they can best support you.
Step 4 of 7
You’ll receive a “wait” message with optional questions while we connect you to a counselor.
Step 5 of 7
Your counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 6 of 7
Your skilled counselor will ask if you are safe.
Step 7 of 7
After they ask about your safety, they will be calm and comforting, listen to you, and provide support. They may also share helpful resources.
CRISIS TEXT LINE
Text Connect to 741741 for free confidential Support
Crisis Text Line serves anyone facing mental health challenges, providing access to free, 24/7, confidential support through communication channels people know and trust.
Share 741741
Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. We spend our days (and nights!) helping texters and how we can reach people in their moments of crisis. And, we couldn’t do it without you! Use these digital assets and printable materials to get the word out about 741741.
What To Know
Before you paint the town 741741, there are a few things you should know about Crisis Text Line. Here’s the nitty-gritty:
What is Crisis Text Line? Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 crisis support by text message.
How does it work? When someone is in crisis, they can text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor who will help them move from a hot moment to cool and calm.
Who are Crisis Counselors? They are trained volunteers who—with the support of full-time Crisis Text Line staff—use active listening, collaborative problem solving, and safety planning to help texters in their moment of crisis.
How to Cope with Self Harm
Text Connect to 741741 for free confidential Support
We all need healthy ways to cope with the hard stuff. We’re here to help you find a healthy alternative to self-harm.
Understanding Self-Harm
For some people, when depression and anxiety lead to a tornado of emotions, they turn to self-harm looking for a release. Self-harm and self-injury are any forms of hurting oneself to cope. Sometimes, when people self-harm, they do not do so as a suicide attempt. Rather, they inflict pain as a way to release painful emotions.
Common Types of Self-Harm
Self-harm can manifest differently for everyone. And, the ways people may inflict harm upon themselves extend far beyond the usual news media references such as cutting. Simply, self-harm is anything and everything someone can do to purposely hurt their body.
Here are some of the most common types of self-injury:
- Cutting
- Scratching
- Burning
- Carving words or symbols into the skin
- Hitting or punching oneself (including banging one’s head or other body parts against another surface)
- Piercing the skin with sharp objects such as hairpins
- Pulling out hair
- Picking at existing wounds
Recognizing the Signs of Self-Harm
Stigma creates shame and embarrassment, making it hard for people who self harm to get help. So, look out for yourself and for your pals. If you suspect that someone in your life is doing it, here are some warning signs to keep top of mind:
- Scars
- Fresh cuts, burns, scratches, or bruises
- Rubbing an area excessively to create a burn
- Having sharp objects on hand
- Wearing long sleeves or long pants, even in hot weather
- Difficulties with interpersonal relationships
- Persistent questions about personal identity
- Behavioral and emotional instability, impulsiveness, or unpredictability
- Saying that they feel helpless, hopeless, or worthless
Crisis Text Line can help you deal with self-injury. Text a Crisis Counselor at 741741, or use the mobile text button below.
How to Cope With Self-Harm
Emotions can be really painful sometimes. It’s totally normal to need ways to cope with and process the hard things in your life. If you are using harming yourself to manage your emotions, we’re here for you. And, we want to help keep you safe.
Here are some ways to push through, process, and cope with your emotions.
- Text someone you trust or a counselor to help you cool down. If you’re dealing with painful emotions, we’re here to help. Send us a text to connect with a real human and strategize healthy coping mechanisms to manage your emotions. Text CONNECT to 741741 to reach a real human.
- Get creative. Did you know that making art can help people process emotions? So, next time you’re feeling like harming yourself, grab your sharpie and doodle your worries away. A bonus: you can totally suck at it and still reap the same rewards.
- Meditate or breathe deeply. Keeping yourself safe from self-injury is all about finding healthy alternatives to work through the hard stuff. Researchers found taking time to re-center through meditation to be a powerful way to find your cool and calm. Try using an app like Headspace to get on the meditation bandwagon.
- Talk to a professional. Self-injury of any form is serious. And, while the intention behind self-injury usually is not death, it can still be dangerous—both physically and emotionally. Talking to someone who can help you find alternatives is incredibly important. Of course, you can start by texting us. Also, consider telling someone you know who can help you connect with a professional.
Why Do People Self-Harm?
Let’s start with this: everyone needs a way to cope with their emotions. People who have turned to hurting themselves as their coping mechanism to manage their emotions.
So, people might self-harm to:
- Process difficult emotions
- Distract themselves from their negative feelings
- Feel something physical, particularly if they are feeling numb
- Develop a sense of control over their lives
- Punish themselves for perceived faults
- Express emotions that they are unable to share
Effects of Self-Harm
Self-harm can be seriously dangerous—physically, emotionally, socially, all of it.
Physical Effects of Self-Harm
- Permanent scars
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Risk of infection or severe injury
Emotional Effects of Self-Harm
- Guilt, shame, or emotional numbness
- A diminished sense of self, including feeling helpless or worthless
- Addiction to the behavior
Social Effects of Self-Harm
- Avoiding friends and loved ones
- Becoming ostracized from loved ones who may not understand
- Interpersonal difficulty from lying to others about injuries
Recovering from Self-Harm
A lot of people who self-harm do so because they are dealing with painful emotions. If this applies to you—we believe in you and recognize your pain. Because painful emotions are at the root of it, quite often recovering involves addressing emotions.
Breaking away from the cycle of harming yourself can feel like a huge climb. It involves breaking a habit that has once brought comfort from pain. But, it is not impossible. Here are some steps to set you up for success:
- Understand your triggers. Name your reason for hurting yourself and your reason for quitting. Ask yourself: “What do I feel before, during, and after self-injury? Which of those emotions do I actively seek out, and which are harmful?”
- Replace harmful behaviors. For example, if you harm yourself for the physical sensation, seek other ways of releasing endorphins, like exercise. For real, try throwing a few punches at a kickboxing class or tapping it back in a spin class with the *perfect* playlist. If you SH to express your emotions, practice expressing them in words by writing them down. Grab a pen and your favorite notebook, or start typing away in your notes app.
- Address underlying emotions. Explore the feelings that lead you to want to hurt yourself. If it’s guilt, where is that guilt coming from? Maybe try finding a therapist—there are pros trained specifically to help with this.
- Build a support system. Let a friend, family member, or trusted adult know what you’re going through and that you need their support. Opening up to people can be easier said than done. Here’s a place to start: “I’m having a hard time processing some painful emotions and I could use your support right now.”
Getting healthy—both in your brain and in your body—takes hard work. You got this. And, we believe in you.
Text a Crisis Counselor at 741471 or use the mobile click to text button below. Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 and confidential. You’re not alone.
Specific LGBTQ+ Support for Young Adults was Removed from 988 Lifeline
988 will still take calls; additional resources below.
Effective July 17, 2025
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is removing the “Press 3” option that connected LGBTQ+ youth to specialized, affirming counselors.
This change is the result of a federal budget cuts which eliminated funding for LGBTQ-specific services. General 988 support remains available, but LGBTQ+ youth will no longer have direct access to trained LGBTQ+ crisis counselors.
988 will still answer calls from everyone, but it will no longer offer identity-specific crisis support.
Alternatives for LGBTQ+ Youth in Crisis
-
The Trevor Project
Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth (24/7)
Call: 1-866-488-7386
Text: START to 678678
Chat: thetrevorproject.org
-
Trans Lifeline
Peer-led crisis support for trans people (no non-consensual rescue)
Call: 877-565-8860
Website: translifeline.org
-
Q Chat Space
Live-chat support groups for LGBTQ+ youth (ages 13–19)
Website: qchatspace.org
-
LGBT National Youth Talkline
Confidential peer support (ages 25 & under)
Call: 1-800-246-7743
Website: lgbthotline.org
-
BlackLine
Peer support line prioritizing BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities
Call: 1-800-604-5841
Website: callblackline.com
-
StrongHearts Native Helpline
Support for Native LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing crisis or abuse
Call or Text: 1-844-762-8483
Website: strongheartshelpline.org
-
Rainbow Youth Project USA
Mental health crisis support and advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth
Call: 1-317-643-4888
Website: rainbowyouthproject.org
Disclaimer: We do not provide emergency services. This information is provided solely as a courtesy without warranty or guarantee of any kind whatsoever.
SIRA
Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness
WEDNESDAY MEETING, 2-3 PM PST
USE THIS LINK TO ATTEND
ABOUT SIRA
Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness, or “SIRA” for short, focuses on filling the massive gap of care for the self-injury community by teaching them how to heal from the inside-out, through a peer-to-peer support group model.
If you need to talk, the 988 Lifeline is here.
At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.
What to Expect
Calling the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when making a call to the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 5
First, you’ll hear a message that gives you service selection options.
Listen to the pre-recorded message (mp3).
Step 2 of 5
We’ll play some hold music while you are connected to a counselor with our Spanish-language, LGBTQI+ services, or your local 988 Lifeline contact center. For veterans, the phone will ring until a counselor can answer your call.
Step 3 of 5
A counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 4 of 5
Your skilled counselor will ask you if you are safe.
Step 5 of 5
After they ask about your safety, your counselor will listen to you, understand how your problem is affecting you, provide support, and share any resources that may be helpful.
Chatting with the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when starting a chat with the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 6
After clicking “Chat With Us,” a new window with a brief survey will open. This survey helps our counselors understand how to best support you and takes less than 5 minutes to complete.
Step 2 of 6
When you click “Start a Chat”, you are accepting our Terms of Service.
Step 3 of 6
You will then see a screen that indicates we are connecting you to a counselor.
Step 4 of 6
A counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 5 of 6
Your skilled counselor will ask if you are safe.
Step 6 of 6
After they ask about your safety, they will be calm and comforting, listen to you, and provide support. They may also share helpful resources.
Texting with the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when texting the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 7
When you send a text to 988, you will be given options to connect with a counselor from the Veterans, Spanish-language, LGBTQI+ service, or the main 988 Lifeline.
Step 2 of 7
When you text “next” you will be accepting our Terms of Service.
Step 3 of 7
You will then need to complete a brief survey to help your counselor understand how they can best support you.
Step 4 of 7
You’ll receive a “wait” message with optional questions while we connect you to a counselor.
Step 5 of 7
Your counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 6 of 7
Your skilled counselor will ask if you are safe.
Step 7 of 7
After they ask about your safety, they will be calm and comforting, listen to you, and provide support. They may also share helpful resources.
CRISIS TEXT LINE
Text Connect to 741741 for free confidential Support
Crisis Text Line serves anyone facing mental health challenges, providing access to free, 24/7, confidential support through communication channels people know and trust.
Share 741741
Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. We spend our days (and nights!) helping texters and how we can reach people in their moments of crisis. And, we couldn’t do it without you! Use these digital assets and printable materials to get the word out about 741741.
What To Know
Before you paint the town 741741, there are a few things you should know about Crisis Text Line. Here’s the nitty-gritty:
What is Crisis Text Line? Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 crisis support by text message.
How does it work? When someone is in crisis, they can text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor who will help them move from a hot moment to cool and calm.
Who are Crisis Counselors? They are trained volunteers who—with the support of full-time Crisis Text Line staff—use active listening, collaborative problem solving, and safety planning to help texters in their moment of crisis.
How to Cope with Self Harm
Text Connect to 741741 for free confidential Support
We all need healthy ways to cope with the hard stuff. We’re here to help you find a healthy alternative to self-harm.
Understanding Self-Harm
For some people, when depression and anxiety lead to a tornado of emotions, they turn to self-harm looking for a release. Self-harm and self-injury are any forms of hurting oneself to cope. Sometimes, when people self-harm, they do not do so as a suicide attempt. Rather, they inflict pain as a way to release painful emotions.
Common Types of Self-Harm
Self-harm can manifest differently for everyone. And, the ways people may inflict harm upon themselves extend far beyond the usual news media references such as cutting. Simply, self-harm is anything and everything someone can do to purposely hurt their body.
Here are some of the most common types of self-injury:
- Cutting
- Scratching
- Burning
- Carving words or symbols into the skin
- Hitting or punching oneself (including banging one’s head or other body parts against another surface)
- Piercing the skin with sharp objects such as hairpins
- Pulling out hair
- Picking at existing wounds
Recognizing the Signs of Self-Harm
Stigma creates shame and embarrassment, making it hard for people who self harm to get help. So, look out for yourself and for your pals. If you suspect that someone in your life is doing it, here are some warning signs to keep top of mind:
- Scars
- Fresh cuts, burns, scratches, or bruises
- Rubbing an area excessively to create a burn
- Having sharp objects on hand
- Wearing long sleeves or long pants, even in hot weather
- Difficulties with interpersonal relationships
- Persistent questions about personal identity
- Behavioral and emotional instability, impulsiveness, or unpredictability
- Saying that they feel helpless, hopeless, or worthless
Crisis Text Line can help you deal with self-injury. Text a Crisis Counselor at 741741, or use the mobile text button below.
How to Cope With Self-Harm
Emotions can be really painful sometimes. It’s totally normal to need ways to cope with and process the hard things in your life. If you are using harming yourself to manage your emotions, we’re here for you. And, we want to help keep you safe.
Here are some ways to push through, process, and cope with your emotions.
- Text someone you trust or a counselor to help you cool down. If you’re dealing with painful emotions, we’re here to help. Send us a text to connect with a real human and strategize healthy coping mechanisms to manage your emotions. Text CONNECT to 741741 to reach a real human.
- Get creative. Did you know that making art can help people process emotions? So, next time you’re feeling like harming yourself, grab your sharpie and doodle your worries away. A bonus: you can totally suck at it and still reap the same rewards.
- Meditate or breathe deeply. Keeping yourself safe from self-injury is all about finding healthy alternatives to work through the hard stuff. Researchers found taking time to re-center through meditation to be a powerful way to find your cool and calm. Try using an app like Headspace to get on the meditation bandwagon.
- Talk to a professional. Self-injury of any form is serious. And, while the intention behind self-injury usually is not death, it can still be dangerous—both physically and emotionally. Talking to someone who can help you find alternatives is incredibly important. Of course, you can start by texting us. Also, consider telling someone you know who can help you connect with a professional.
Why Do People Self-Harm?
Let’s start with this: everyone needs a way to cope with their emotions. People who have turned to hurting themselves as their coping mechanism to manage their emotions.
So, people might self-harm to:
- Process difficult emotions
- Distract themselves from their negative feelings
- Feel something physical, particularly if they are feeling numb
- Develop a sense of control over their lives
- Punish themselves for perceived faults
- Express emotions that they are unable to share
Effects of Self-Harm
Self-harm can be seriously dangerous—physically, emotionally, socially, all of it.
Physical Effects of Self-Harm
- Permanent scars
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Risk of infection or severe injury
Emotional Effects of Self-Harm
- Guilt, shame, or emotional numbness
- A diminished sense of self, including feeling helpless or worthless
- Addiction to the behavior
Social Effects of Self-Harm
- Avoiding friends and loved ones
- Becoming ostracized from loved ones who may not understand
- Interpersonal difficulty from lying to others about injuries
Recovering from Self-Harm
A lot of people who self-harm do so because they are dealing with painful emotions. If this applies to you—we believe in you and recognize your pain. Because painful emotions are at the root of it, quite often recovering involves addressing emotions.
Breaking away from the cycle of harming yourself can feel like a huge climb. It involves breaking a habit that has once brought comfort from pain. But, it is not impossible. Here are some steps to set you up for success:
- Understand your triggers. Name your reason for hurting yourself and your reason for quitting. Ask yourself: “What do I feel before, during, and after self-injury? Which of those emotions do I actively seek out, and which are harmful?”
- Replace harmful behaviors. For example, if you harm yourself for the physical sensation, seek other ways of releasing endorphins, like exercise. For real, try throwing a few punches at a kickboxing class or tapping it back in a spin class with the *perfect* playlist. If you SH to express your emotions, practice expressing them in words by writing them down. Grab a pen and your favorite notebook, or start typing away in your notes app.
- Address underlying emotions. Explore the feelings that lead you to want to hurt yourself. If it’s guilt, where is that guilt coming from? Maybe try finding a therapist—there are pros trained specifically to help with this.
- Build a support system. Let a friend, family member, or trusted adult know what you’re going through and that you need their support. Opening up to people can be easier said than done. Here’s a place to start: “I’m having a hard time processing some painful emotions and I could use your support right now.”
Getting healthy—both in your brain and in your body—takes hard work. You got this. And, we believe in you.
Text a Crisis Counselor at 741471 or use the mobile click to text button below. Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 and confidential. You’re not alone.
Specific LGBTQ+ Support for Young Adults was Removed from 988 Lifeline
988 will still take calls; additional resources below.
Effective July 17, 2025
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is removing the “Press 3” option that connected LGBTQ+ youth to specialized, affirming counselors.
This change is the result of a federal budget cuts which eliminated funding for LGBTQ-specific services. General 988 support remains available, but LGBTQ+ youth will no longer have direct access to trained LGBTQ+ crisis counselors.
988 will still answer calls from everyone, but it will no longer offer identity-specific crisis support.
Alternatives for LGBTQ+ Youth in Crisis
-
The Trevor Project
Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth (24/7)
Call: 1-866-488-7386
Text: START to 678678
Chat: thetrevorproject.org
-
Trans Lifeline
Peer-led crisis support for trans people (no non-consensual rescue)
Call: 877-565-8860
Website: translifeline.org
-
Q Chat Space
Live-chat support groups for LGBTQ+ youth (ages 13–19)
Website: qchatspace.org
-
LGBT National Youth Talkline
Confidential peer support (ages 25 & under)
Call: 1-800-246-7743
Website: lgbthotline.org
-
BlackLine
Peer support line prioritizing BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities
Call: 1-800-604-5841
Website: callblackline.com
-
StrongHearts Native Helpline
Support for Native LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing crisis or abuse
Call or Text: 1-844-762-8483
Website: strongheartshelpline.org
-
Rainbow Youth Project USA
Mental health crisis support and advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth
Call: 1-317-643-4888
Website: rainbowyouthproject.org
Disclaimer: We do not provide emergency services. This information is provided solely as a courtesy without warranty or guarantee of any kind whatsoever.
SIRA
Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness
WEDNESDAY MEETING, 6:30 – 7:30PM PST
USE THIS LINK TO ATTEND
ABOUT SIRA
Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness, or “SIRA” for short, focuses on filling the massive gap of care for the self-injury community by teaching them how to heal from the inside-out, through a peer-to-peer support group model.
If you need to talk, the 988 Lifeline is here.
At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.
What to Expect
Calling the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when making a call to the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 5
First, you’ll hear a message that gives you service selection options.
Listen to the pre-recorded message (mp3).
Step 2 of 5
We’ll play some hold music while you are connected to a counselor with our Spanish-language, LGBTQI+ services, or your local 988 Lifeline contact center. For veterans, the phone will ring until a counselor can answer your call.
Step 3 of 5
A counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 4 of 5
Your skilled counselor will ask you if you are safe.
Step 5 of 5
After they ask about your safety, your counselor will listen to you, understand how your problem is affecting you, provide support, and share any resources that may be helpful.
Chatting with the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when starting a chat with the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 6
After clicking “Chat With Us,” a new window with a brief survey will open. This survey helps our counselors understand how to best support you and takes less than 5 minutes to complete.
Step 2 of 6
When you click “Start a Chat”, you are accepting our Terms of Service.
Step 3 of 6
You will then see a screen that indicates we are connecting you to a counselor.
Step 4 of 6
A counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 5 of 6
Your skilled counselor will ask if you are safe.
Step 6 of 6
After they ask about your safety, they will be calm and comforting, listen to you, and provide support. They may also share helpful resources.
Texting with the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when texting the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 7
When you send a text to 988, you will be given options to connect with a counselor from the Veterans, Spanish-language, LGBTQI+ service, or the main 988 Lifeline.
Step 2 of 7
When you text “next” you will be accepting our Terms of Service.
Step 3 of 7
You will then need to complete a brief survey to help your counselor understand how they can best support you.
Step 4 of 7
You’ll receive a “wait” message with optional questions while we connect you to a counselor.
Step 5 of 7
Your counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 6 of 7
Your skilled counselor will ask if you are safe.
Step 7 of 7
After they ask about your safety, they will be calm and comforting, listen to you, and provide support. They may also share helpful resources.
CRISIS TEXT LINE
Text Connect to 741741 for free confidential Support
Crisis Text Line serves anyone facing mental health challenges, providing access to free, 24/7, confidential support through communication channels people know and trust.
Share 741741
Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. We spend our days (and nights!) helping texters and how we can reach people in their moments of crisis. And, we couldn’t do it without you! Use these digital assets and printable materials to get the word out about 741741.
What To Know
Before you paint the town 741741, there are a few things you should know about Crisis Text Line. Here’s the nitty-gritty:
What is Crisis Text Line? Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 crisis support by text message.
How does it work? When someone is in crisis, they can text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor who will help them move from a hot moment to cool and calm.
Who are Crisis Counselors? They are trained volunteers who—with the support of full-time Crisis Text Line staff—use active listening, collaborative problem solving, and safety planning to help texters in their moment of crisis.
How to Cope with Self Harm
Text Connect to 741741 for free confidential Support
We all need healthy ways to cope with the hard stuff. We’re here to help you find a healthy alternative to self-harm.
Understanding Self-Harm
For some people, when depression and anxiety lead to a tornado of emotions, they turn to self-harm looking for a release. Self-harm and self-injury are any forms of hurting oneself to cope. Sometimes, when people self-harm, they do not do so as a suicide attempt. Rather, they inflict pain as a way to release painful emotions.
Common Types of Self-Harm
Self-harm can manifest differently for everyone. And, the ways people may inflict harm upon themselves extend far beyond the usual news media references such as cutting. Simply, self-harm is anything and everything someone can do to purposely hurt their body.
Here are some of the most common types of self-injury:
- Cutting
- Scratching
- Burning
- Carving words or symbols into the skin
- Hitting or punching oneself (including banging one’s head or other body parts against another surface)
- Piercing the skin with sharp objects such as hairpins
- Pulling out hair
- Picking at existing wounds
Recognizing the Signs of Self-Harm
Stigma creates shame and embarrassment, making it hard for people who self harm to get help. So, look out for yourself and for your pals. If you suspect that someone in your life is doing it, here are some warning signs to keep top of mind:
- Scars
- Fresh cuts, burns, scratches, or bruises
- Rubbing an area excessively to create a burn
- Having sharp objects on hand
- Wearing long sleeves or long pants, even in hot weather
- Difficulties with interpersonal relationships
- Persistent questions about personal identity
- Behavioral and emotional instability, impulsiveness, or unpredictability
- Saying that they feel helpless, hopeless, or worthless
Crisis Text Line can help you deal with self-injury. Text a Crisis Counselor at 741741, or use the mobile text button below.
How to Cope With Self-Harm
Emotions can be really painful sometimes. It’s totally normal to need ways to cope with and process the hard things in your life. If you are using harming yourself to manage your emotions, we’re here for you. And, we want to help keep you safe.
Here are some ways to push through, process, and cope with your emotions.
- Text someone you trust or a counselor to help you cool down. If you’re dealing with painful emotions, we’re here to help. Send us a text to connect with a real human and strategize healthy coping mechanisms to manage your emotions. Text CONNECT to 741741 to reach a real human.
- Get creative. Did you know that making art can help people process emotions? So, next time you’re feeling like harming yourself, grab your sharpie and doodle your worries away. A bonus: you can totally suck at it and still reap the same rewards.
- Meditate or breathe deeply. Keeping yourself safe from self-injury is all about finding healthy alternatives to work through the hard stuff. Researchers found taking time to re-center through meditation to be a powerful way to find your cool and calm. Try using an app like Headspace to get on the meditation bandwagon.
- Talk to a professional. Self-injury of any form is serious. And, while the intention behind self-injury usually is not death, it can still be dangerous—both physically and emotionally. Talking to someone who can help you find alternatives is incredibly important. Of course, you can start by texting us. Also, consider telling someone you know who can help you connect with a professional.
Why Do People Self-Harm?
Let’s start with this: everyone needs a way to cope with their emotions. People who have turned to hurting themselves as their coping mechanism to manage their emotions.
So, people might self-harm to:
- Process difficult emotions
- Distract themselves from their negative feelings
- Feel something physical, particularly if they are feeling numb
- Develop a sense of control over their lives
- Punish themselves for perceived faults
- Express emotions that they are unable to share
Effects of Self-Harm
Self-harm can be seriously dangerous—physically, emotionally, socially, all of it.
Physical Effects of Self-Harm
- Permanent scars
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Risk of infection or severe injury
Emotional Effects of Self-Harm
- Guilt, shame, or emotional numbness
- A diminished sense of self, including feeling helpless or worthless
- Addiction to the behavior
Social Effects of Self-Harm
- Avoiding friends and loved ones
- Becoming ostracized from loved ones who may not understand
- Interpersonal difficulty from lying to others about injuries
Recovering from Self-Harm
A lot of people who self-harm do so because they are dealing with painful emotions. If this applies to you—we believe in you and recognize your pain. Because painful emotions are at the root of it, quite often recovering involves addressing emotions.
Breaking away from the cycle of harming yourself can feel like a huge climb. It involves breaking a habit that has once brought comfort from pain. But, it is not impossible. Here are some steps to set you up for success:
- Understand your triggers. Name your reason for hurting yourself and your reason for quitting. Ask yourself: “What do I feel before, during, and after self-injury? Which of those emotions do I actively seek out, and which are harmful?”
- Replace harmful behaviors. For example, if you harm yourself for the physical sensation, seek other ways of releasing endorphins, like exercise. For real, try throwing a few punches at a kickboxing class or tapping it back in a spin class with the *perfect* playlist. If you SH to express your emotions, practice expressing them in words by writing them down. Grab a pen and your favorite notebook, or start typing away in your notes app.
- Address underlying emotions. Explore the feelings that lead you to want to hurt yourself. If it’s guilt, where is that guilt coming from? Maybe try finding a therapist—there are pros trained specifically to help with this.
- Build a support system. Let a friend, family member, or trusted adult know what you’re going through and that you need their support. Opening up to people can be easier said than done. Here’s a place to start: “I’m having a hard time processing some painful emotions and I could use your support right now.”
Getting healthy—both in your brain and in your body—takes hard work. You got this. And, we believe in you.
Text a Crisis Counselor at 741471 or use the mobile click to text button below. Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 and confidential. You’re not alone.
Specific LGBTQ+ Support for Young Adults was Removed from 988 Lifeline
988 will still take calls; additional resources below.
Effective July 17, 2025
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is removing the “Press 3” option that connected LGBTQ+ youth to specialized, affirming counselors.
This change is the result of a federal budget cuts which eliminated funding for LGBTQ-specific services. General 988 support remains available, but LGBTQ+ youth will no longer have direct access to trained LGBTQ+ crisis counselors.
988 will still answer calls from everyone, but it will no longer offer identity-specific crisis support.
Alternatives for LGBTQ+ Youth in Crisis
-
The Trevor Project
Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth (24/7)
Call: 1-866-488-7386
Text: START to 678678
Chat: thetrevorproject.org
-
Trans Lifeline
Peer-led crisis support for trans people (no non-consensual rescue)
Call: 877-565-8860
Website: translifeline.org
-
Q Chat Space
Live-chat support groups for LGBTQ+ youth (ages 13–19)
Website: qchatspace.org
-
LGBT National Youth Talkline
Confidential peer support (ages 25 & under)
Call: 1-800-246-7743
Website: lgbthotline.org
-
BlackLine
Peer support line prioritizing BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities
Call: 1-800-604-5841
Website: callblackline.com
-
StrongHearts Native Helpline
Support for Native LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing crisis or abuse
Call or Text: 1-844-762-8483
Website: strongheartshelpline.org
-
Rainbow Youth Project USA
Mental health crisis support and advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth
Call: 1-317-643-4888
Website: rainbowyouthproject.org
Disclaimer: We do not provide emergency services. This information is provided solely as a courtesy without warranty or guarantee of any kind whatsoever.
SIRA
Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness
SIRA literature “layers to discovery” meetings, all ages
Thursdays, 2-3 PM PST
USE THIS LINK TO ATTEND
ABOUT SIRA
Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness, or “SIRA” for short, focuses on filling the massive gap of care for the self-injury community by teaching them how to heal from the inside-out, through a peer-to-peer support group model.
If you need to talk, the 988 Lifeline is here.
At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.
What to Expect
Calling the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when making a call to the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 5
First, you’ll hear a message that gives you service selection options.
Listen to the pre-recorded message (mp3).
Step 2 of 5
We’ll play some hold music while you are connected to a counselor with our Spanish-language, LGBTQI+ services, or your local 988 Lifeline contact center. For veterans, the phone will ring until a counselor can answer your call.
Step 3 of 5
A counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 4 of 5
Your skilled counselor will ask you if you are safe.
Step 5 of 5
After they ask about your safety, your counselor will listen to you, understand how your problem is affecting you, provide support, and share any resources that may be helpful.
Chatting with the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when starting a chat with the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 6
After clicking “Chat With Us,” a new window with a brief survey will open. This survey helps our counselors understand how to best support you and takes less than 5 minutes to complete.
Step 2 of 6
When you click “Start a Chat”, you are accepting our Terms of Service.
Step 3 of 6
You will then see a screen that indicates we are connecting you to a counselor.
Step 4 of 6
A counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 5 of 6
Your skilled counselor will ask if you are safe.
Step 6 of 6
After they ask about your safety, they will be calm and comforting, listen to you, and provide support. They may also share helpful resources.
Texting with the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when texting the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 7
When you send a text to 988, you will be given options to connect with a counselor from the Veterans, Spanish-language, LGBTQI+ service, or the main 988 Lifeline.
Step 2 of 7
When you text “next” you will be accepting our Terms of Service.
Step 3 of 7
You will then need to complete a brief survey to help your counselor understand how they can best support you.
Step 4 of 7
You’ll receive a “wait” message with optional questions while we connect you to a counselor.
Step 5 of 7
Your counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 6 of 7
Your skilled counselor will ask if you are safe.
Step 7 of 7
After they ask about your safety, they will be calm and comforting, listen to you, and provide support. They may also share helpful resources.
CRISIS TEXT LINE
Text Connect to 741741 for free confidential Support
Crisis Text Line serves anyone facing mental health challenges, providing access to free, 24/7, confidential support through communication channels people know and trust.
Share 741741
Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. We spend our days (and nights!) helping texters and how we can reach people in their moments of crisis. And, we couldn’t do it without you! Use these digital assets and printable materials to get the word out about 741741.
What To Know
Before you paint the town 741741, there are a few things you should know about Crisis Text Line. Here’s the nitty-gritty:
What is Crisis Text Line? Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 crisis support by text message.
How does it work? When someone is in crisis, they can text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor who will help them move from a hot moment to cool and calm.
Who are Crisis Counselors? They are trained volunteers who—with the support of full-time Crisis Text Line staff—use active listening, collaborative problem solving, and safety planning to help texters in their moment of crisis.
How to Cope with Self Harm
Text Connect to 741741 for free confidential Support
We all need healthy ways to cope with the hard stuff. We’re here to help you find a healthy alternative to self-harm.
Understanding Self-Harm
For some people, when depression and anxiety lead to a tornado of emotions, they turn to self-harm looking for a release. Self-harm and self-injury are any forms of hurting oneself to cope. Sometimes, when people self-harm, they do not do so as a suicide attempt. Rather, they inflict pain as a way to release painful emotions.
Common Types of Self-Harm
Self-harm can manifest differently for everyone. And, the ways people may inflict harm upon themselves extend far beyond the usual news media references such as cutting. Simply, self-harm is anything and everything someone can do to purposely hurt their body.
Here are some of the most common types of self-injury:
- Cutting
- Scratching
- Burning
- Carving words or symbols into the skin
- Hitting or punching oneself (including banging one’s head or other body parts against another surface)
- Piercing the skin with sharp objects such as hairpins
- Pulling out hair
- Picking at existing wounds
Recognizing the Signs of Self-Harm
Stigma creates shame and embarrassment, making it hard for people who self harm to get help. So, look out for yourself and for your pals. If you suspect that someone in your life is doing it, here are some warning signs to keep top of mind:
- Scars
- Fresh cuts, burns, scratches, or bruises
- Rubbing an area excessively to create a burn
- Having sharp objects on hand
- Wearing long sleeves or long pants, even in hot weather
- Difficulties with interpersonal relationships
- Persistent questions about personal identity
- Behavioral and emotional instability, impulsiveness, or unpredictability
- Saying that they feel helpless, hopeless, or worthless
Crisis Text Line can help you deal with self-injury. Text a Crisis Counselor at 741741, or use the mobile text button below.
How to Cope With Self-Harm
Emotions can be really painful sometimes. It’s totally normal to need ways to cope with and process the hard things in your life. If you are using harming yourself to manage your emotions, we’re here for you. And, we want to help keep you safe.
Here are some ways to push through, process, and cope with your emotions.
- Text someone you trust or a counselor to help you cool down. If you’re dealing with painful emotions, we’re here to help. Send us a text to connect with a real human and strategize healthy coping mechanisms to manage your emotions. Text CONNECT to 741741 to reach a real human.
- Get creative. Did you know that making art can help people process emotions? So, next time you’re feeling like harming yourself, grab your sharpie and doodle your worries away. A bonus: you can totally suck at it and still reap the same rewards.
- Meditate or breathe deeply. Keeping yourself safe from self-injury is all about finding healthy alternatives to work through the hard stuff. Researchers found taking time to re-center through meditation to be a powerful way to find your cool and calm. Try using an app like Headspace to get on the meditation bandwagon.
- Talk to a professional. Self-injury of any form is serious. And, while the intention behind self-injury usually is not death, it can still be dangerous—both physically and emotionally. Talking to someone who can help you find alternatives is incredibly important. Of course, you can start by texting us. Also, consider telling someone you know who can help you connect with a professional.
Why Do People Self-Harm?
Let’s start with this: everyone needs a way to cope with their emotions. People who have turned to hurting themselves as their coping mechanism to manage their emotions.
So, people might self-harm to:
- Process difficult emotions
- Distract themselves from their negative feelings
- Feel something physical, particularly if they are feeling numb
- Develop a sense of control over their lives
- Punish themselves for perceived faults
- Express emotions that they are unable to share
Effects of Self-Harm
Self-harm can be seriously dangerous—physically, emotionally, socially, all of it.
Physical Effects of Self-Harm
- Permanent scars
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Risk of infection or severe injury
Emotional Effects of Self-Harm
- Guilt, shame, or emotional numbness
- A diminished sense of self, including feeling helpless or worthless
- Addiction to the behavior
Social Effects of Self-Harm
- Avoiding friends and loved ones
- Becoming ostracized from loved ones who may not understand
- Interpersonal difficulty from lying to others about injuries
Recovering from Self-Harm
A lot of people who self-harm do so because they are dealing with painful emotions. If this applies to you—we believe in you and recognize your pain. Because painful emotions are at the root of it, quite often recovering involves addressing emotions.
Breaking away from the cycle of harming yourself can feel like a huge climb. It involves breaking a habit that has once brought comfort from pain. But, it is not impossible. Here are some steps to set you up for success:
- Understand your triggers. Name your reason for hurting yourself and your reason for quitting. Ask yourself: “What do I feel before, during, and after self-injury? Which of those emotions do I actively seek out, and which are harmful?”
- Replace harmful behaviors. For example, if you harm yourself for the physical sensation, seek other ways of releasing endorphins, like exercise. For real, try throwing a few punches at a kickboxing class or tapping it back in a spin class with the *perfect* playlist. If you SH to express your emotions, practice expressing them in words by writing them down. Grab a pen and your favorite notebook, or start typing away in your notes app.
- Address underlying emotions. Explore the feelings that lead you to want to hurt yourself. If it’s guilt, where is that guilt coming from? Maybe try finding a therapist—there are pros trained specifically to help with this.
- Build a support system. Let a friend, family member, or trusted adult know what you’re going through and that you need their support. Opening up to people can be easier said than done. Here’s a place to start: “I’m having a hard time processing some painful emotions and I could use your support right now.”
Getting healthy—both in your brain and in your body—takes hard work. You got this. And, we believe in you.
Text a Crisis Counselor at 741471 or use the mobile click to text button below. Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 and confidential. You’re not alone.
Specific LGBTQ+ Support for Young Adults was Removed from 988 Lifeline
988 will still take calls; additional resources below.
Effective July 17, 2025
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is removing the “Press 3” option that connected LGBTQ+ youth to specialized, affirming counselors.
This change is the result of a federal budget cuts which eliminated funding for LGBTQ-specific services. General 988 support remains available, but LGBTQ+ youth will no longer have direct access to trained LGBTQ+ crisis counselors.
988 will still answer calls from everyone, but it will no longer offer identity-specific crisis support.
Alternatives for LGBTQ+ Youth in Crisis
-
The Trevor Project
Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth (24/7)
Call: 1-866-488-7386
Text: START to 678678
Chat: thetrevorproject.org
-
Trans Lifeline
Peer-led crisis support for trans people (no non-consensual rescue)
Call: 877-565-8860
Website: translifeline.org
-
Q Chat Space
Live-chat support groups for LGBTQ+ youth (ages 13–19)
Website: qchatspace.org
-
LGBT National Youth Talkline
Confidential peer support (ages 25 & under)
Call: 1-800-246-7743
Website: lgbthotline.org
-
BlackLine
Peer support line prioritizing BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities
Call: 1-800-604-5841
Website: callblackline.com
-
StrongHearts Native Helpline
Support for Native LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing crisis or abuse
Call or Text: 1-844-762-8483
Website: strongheartshelpline.org
-
Rainbow Youth Project USA
Mental health crisis support and advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth
Call: 1-317-643-4888
Website: rainbowyouthproject.org
Disclaimer: We do not provide emergency services. This information is provided solely as a courtesy without warranty or guarantee of any kind whatsoever.
If you need to talk, the 988 Lifeline is here.
At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.
What to Expect
Calling the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when making a call to the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 5
First, you’ll hear a message that gives you service selection options.
Listen to the pre-recorded message (mp3).
Step 2 of 5
We’ll play some hold music while you are connected to a counselor with our Spanish-language, LGBTQI+ services, or your local 988 Lifeline contact center. For veterans, the phone will ring until a counselor can answer your call.
Step 3 of 5
A counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 4 of 5
Your skilled counselor will ask you if you are safe.
Step 5 of 5
After they ask about your safety, your counselor will listen to you, understand how your problem is affecting you, provide support, and share any resources that may be helpful.
Chatting with the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when starting a chat with the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 6
After clicking “Chat With Us,” a new window with a brief survey will open. This survey helps our counselors understand how to best support you and takes less than 5 minutes to complete.
Step 2 of 6
When you click “Start a Chat”, you are accepting our Terms of Service.
Step 3 of 6
You will then see a screen that indicates we are connecting you to a counselor.
Step 4 of 6
A counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 5 of 6
Your skilled counselor will ask if you are safe.
Step 6 of 6
After they ask about your safety, they will be calm and comforting, listen to you, and provide support. They may also share helpful resources.
Texting with the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when texting the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 7
When you send a text to 988, you will be given options to connect with a counselor from the Veterans, Spanish-language, LGBTQI+ service, or the main 988 Lifeline.
Step 2 of 7
When you text “next” you will be accepting our Terms of Service.
Step 3 of 7
You will then need to complete a brief survey to help your counselor understand how they can best support you.
Step 4 of 7
You’ll receive a “wait” message with optional questions while we connect you to a counselor.
Step 5 of 7
Your counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 6 of 7
Your skilled counselor will ask if you are safe.
Step 7 of 7
After they ask about your safety, they will be calm and comforting, listen to you, and provide support. They may also share helpful resources.
CRISIS TEXT LINE
Text Connect to 741741 for free confidential Support
Crisis Text Line serves anyone facing mental health challenges, providing access to free, 24/7, confidential support through communication channels people know and trust.
Share 741741
Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. We spend our days (and nights!) helping texters and how we can reach people in their moments of crisis. And, we couldn’t do it without you! Use these digital assets and printable materials to get the word out about 741741.
What To Know
Before you paint the town 741741, there are a few things you should know about Crisis Text Line. Here’s the nitty-gritty:
What is Crisis Text Line? Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 crisis support by text message.
How does it work? When someone is in crisis, they can text HOME to 741741 to connect with a Crisis Counselor who will help them move from a hot moment to cool and calm.
Who are Crisis Counselors? They are trained volunteers who—with the support of full-time Crisis Text Line staff—use active listening, collaborative problem solving, and safety planning to help texters in their moment of crisis.
How to Cope with Self Harm
Text Connect to 741741 for free confidential Support
We all need healthy ways to cope with the hard stuff. We’re here to help you find a healthy alternative to self-harm.
Understanding Self-Harm
For some people, when depression and anxiety lead to a tornado of emotions, they turn to self-harm looking for a release. Self-harm and self-injury are any forms of hurting oneself to cope. Sometimes, when people self-harm, they do not do so as a suicide attempt. Rather, they inflict pain as a way to release painful emotions.
Common Types of Self-Harm
Self-harm can manifest differently for everyone. And, the ways people may inflict harm upon themselves extend far beyond the usual news media references such as cutting. Simply, self-harm is anything and everything someone can do to purposely hurt their body.
Here are some of the most common types of self-injury:
- Cutting
- Scratching
- Burning
- Carving words or symbols into the skin
- Hitting or punching oneself (including banging one’s head or other body parts against another surface)
- Piercing the skin with sharp objects such as hairpins
- Pulling out hair
- Picking at existing wounds
Recognizing the Signs of Self-Harm
Stigma creates shame and embarrassment, making it hard for people who self harm to get help. So, look out for yourself and for your pals. If you suspect that someone in your life is doing it, here are some warning signs to keep top of mind:
- Scars
- Fresh cuts, burns, scratches, or bruises
- Rubbing an area excessively to create a burn
- Having sharp objects on hand
- Wearing long sleeves or long pants, even in hot weather
- Difficulties with interpersonal relationships
- Persistent questions about personal identity
- Behavioral and emotional instability, impulsiveness, or unpredictability
- Saying that they feel helpless, hopeless, or worthless
Crisis Text Line can help you deal with self-injury. Text a Crisis Counselor at 741741, or use the mobile text button below.
How to Cope With Self-Harm
Emotions can be really painful sometimes. It’s totally normal to need ways to cope with and process the hard things in your life. If you are using harming yourself to manage your emotions, we’re here for you. And, we want to help keep you safe.
Here are some ways to push through, process, and cope with your emotions.
- Text someone you trust or a counselor to help you cool down. If you’re dealing with painful emotions, we’re here to help. Send us a text to connect with a real human and strategize healthy coping mechanisms to manage your emotions. Text CONNECT to 741741 to reach a real human.
- Get creative. Did you know that making art can help people process emotions? So, next time you’re feeling like harming yourself, grab your sharpie and doodle your worries away. A bonus: you can totally suck at it and still reap the same rewards.
- Meditate or breathe deeply. Keeping yourself safe from self-injury is all about finding healthy alternatives to work through the hard stuff. Researchers found taking time to re-center through meditation to be a powerful way to find your cool and calm. Try using an app like Headspace to get on the meditation bandwagon.
- Talk to a professional. Self-injury of any form is serious. And, while the intention behind self-injury usually is not death, it can still be dangerous—both physically and emotionally. Talking to someone who can help you find alternatives is incredibly important. Of course, you can start by texting us. Also, consider telling someone you know who can help you connect with a professional.
Why Do People Self-Harm?
Let’s start with this: everyone needs a way to cope with their emotions. People who have turned to hurting themselves as their coping mechanism to manage their emotions.
So, people might self-harm to:
- Process difficult emotions
- Distract themselves from their negative feelings
- Feel something physical, particularly if they are feeling numb
- Develop a sense of control over their lives
- Punish themselves for perceived faults
- Express emotions that they are unable to share
Effects of Self-Harm
Self-harm can be seriously dangerous—physically, emotionally, socially, all of it.
Physical Effects of Self-Harm
- Permanent scars
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Risk of infection or severe injury
Emotional Effects of Self-Harm
- Guilt, shame, or emotional numbness
- A diminished sense of self, including feeling helpless or worthless
- Addiction to the behavior
Social Effects of Self-Harm
- Avoiding friends and loved ones
- Becoming ostracized from loved ones who may not understand
- Interpersonal difficulty from lying to others about injuries
Recovering from Self-Harm
A lot of people who self-harm do so because they are dealing with painful emotions. If this applies to you—we believe in you and recognize your pain. Because painful emotions are at the root of it, quite often recovering involves addressing emotions.
Breaking away from the cycle of harming yourself can feel like a huge climb. It involves breaking a habit that has once brought comfort from pain. But, it is not impossible. Here are some steps to set you up for success:
- Understand your triggers. Name your reason for hurting yourself and your reason for quitting. Ask yourself: “What do I feel before, during, and after self-injury? Which of those emotions do I actively seek out, and which are harmful?”
- Replace harmful behaviors. For example, if you harm yourself for the physical sensation, seek other ways of releasing endorphins, like exercise. For real, try throwing a few punches at a kickboxing class or tapping it back in a spin class with the *perfect* playlist. If you SH to express your emotions, practice expressing them in words by writing them down. Grab a pen and your favorite notebook, or start typing away in your notes app.
- Address underlying emotions. Explore the feelings that lead you to want to hurt yourself. If it’s guilt, where is that guilt coming from? Maybe try finding a therapist—there are pros trained specifically to help with this.
- Build a support system. Let a friend, family member, or trusted adult know what you’re going through and that you need their support. Opening up to people can be easier said than done. Here’s a place to start: “I’m having a hard time processing some painful emotions and I could use your support right now.”
Getting healthy—both in your brain and in your body—takes hard work. You got this. And, we believe in you.
Text a Crisis Counselor at 741471 or use the mobile click to text button below. Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 and confidential. You’re not alone.
Specific LGBTQ+ Support for Young Adults was Removed from 988 Lifeline
988 will still take calls; additional resources below.
Effective July 17, 2025
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is removing the “Press 3” option that connected LGBTQ+ youth to specialized, affirming counselors.
This change is the result of a federal budget cuts which eliminated funding for LGBTQ-specific services. General 988 support remains available, but LGBTQ+ youth will no longer have direct access to trained LGBTQ+ crisis counselors.
988 will still answer calls from everyone, but it will no longer offer identity-specific crisis support.
Alternatives for LGBTQ+ Youth in Crisis
-
The Trevor Project
Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth (24/7)
Call: 1-866-488-7386
Text: START to 678678
Chat: thetrevorproject.org
-
Trans Lifeline
Peer-led crisis support for trans people (no non-consensual rescue)
Call: 877-565-8860
Website: translifeline.org
-
Q Chat Space
Live-chat support groups for LGBTQ+ youth (ages 13–19)
Website: qchatspace.org
-
LGBT National Youth Talkline
Confidential peer support (ages 25 & under)
Call: 1-800-246-7743
Website: lgbthotline.org
-
BlackLine
Peer support line prioritizing BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities
Call: 1-800-604-5841
Website: callblackline.com
-
StrongHearts Native Helpline
Support for Native LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing crisis or abuse
Call or Text: 1-844-762-8483
Website: strongheartshelpline.org
-
Rainbow Youth Project USA
Mental health crisis support and advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth
Call: 1-317-643-4888
Website: rainbowyouthproject.org
Disclaimer: We do not provide emergency services. This information is provided solely as a courtesy without warranty or guarantee of any kind whatsoever.
SIRA
Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness
SATURDAY MEETING, 1:30PM PST
ABOUT SIRA
Self-Injury Recovery & Awareness, or “SIRA” for short, focuses on filling the massive gap of care for the self-injury community by teaching them how to heal from the inside-out, through a peer-to-peer support group model.
If you need to talk, the 988 Lifeline is here.
At the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes be difficult. Whether you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.
What to Expect
Calling the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when making a call to the 988 Lifeline.
Step 1 of 5
First, you’ll hear a message that gives you service selection options.
Listen to the pre-recorded message (mp3).
Step 2 of 5
We’ll play some hold music while you are connected to a counselor with our Spanish-language, LGBTQI+ services, or your local 988 Lifeline contact center. For veterans, the phone will ring until a counselor can answer your call.
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A counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
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Your skilled counselor will ask you if you are safe.
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After they ask about your safety, your counselor will listen to you, understand how your problem is affecting you, provide support, and share any resources that may be helpful.
Chatting with the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when starting a chat with the 988 Lifeline.
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After clicking “Chat With Us,” a new window with a brief survey will open. This survey helps our counselors understand how to best support you and takes less than 5 minutes to complete.
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When you click “Start a Chat”, you are accepting our Terms of Service.
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You will then see a screen that indicates we are connecting you to a counselor.
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A counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
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Your skilled counselor will ask if you are safe.
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After they ask about your safety, they will be calm and comforting, listen to you, and provide support. They may also share helpful resources.
Texting with the 988 Lifeline
Here is what you can expect when texting the 988 Lifeline.
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When you send a text to 988, you will be given options to connect with a counselor from the Veterans, Spanish-language, LGBTQI+ service, or the main 988 Lifeline.
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When you text “next” you will be accepting our Terms of Service.
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You will then need to complete a brief survey to help your counselor understand how they can best support you.
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You’ll receive a “wait” message with optional questions while we connect you to a counselor.
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Your counselor will say hello and introduce themselves.
Step 6 of 7
Your skilled counselor will ask if you are safe.
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After they ask about your safety, they will be calm and comforting, listen to you, and provide support. They may also share helpful resources.