The 'Hey Sam' crisis text line is a mental health resource for young people. How it works.
September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness month, a time to promote mental health awareness and to provide support for young people suffering from chronic depression and other mental illnesses.
According to the Samaritans, an organization that has provided lifesaving suicide prevention services in Massachusetts for 50 years, suicide is a leading cause of death for young people 15-24 years old.
In an effort to help this age population, the organization has set up a "Hey Sam" text line, which is a peer-to-peer texting service of the Samaritans organization.
According to a release from the group, "In Massachusetts, the need for robust mental health support is evident. In 2021, there were 596 suicide deaths in the state, representing a rate of 8.5 per 100,000. The rise in suicide rates among adolescents highlights the necessity of open conversations around mental health and the resources available to those in need."
The National Alliance on Mental Illness added, "Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues."
Here's what you need to know about the Hey Sam text line.
What is the Hey Sam text line?
According to the Samaritan website, "Hey Sam is a dedicated peer-to-peer texting service for people up to 24 years old." It is designed for and staffed by young people, and is nonjudgmental. The service is free.
When is the Hey Sam service available?
Service is available from 9 a.m. to midnight, eastern time.
What is the number for the text line?
Text Hey Sam at 439-726 when you need to talk.
How does Hey Sam work?
According to the Samaritan website, here is how Hey Sam works:
Text Hey Sam at 439-726 when you need to talk.
You will get an automated response right away while you are connected with one of their trained team members
They will ask for your name and why you are reaching out, but you only need to share what you are comfortable sharing
The team member will listen to you. They will not give advice or try to “fix” anything. They simply want to support you in whatever you are experiencing
When was Hey Sam started?
The Samaritans launched the Hey Sam text line in March of 2022 and more than 3,800 young people have accessed the service to date.
What is expected from the text line's volunteers?
According to the Samaritans, the mission of the volunteers is to:
Connect with our mission of suicide prevention through compassionate listening.
Follow our model of not giving advice or offering your opinion.
Provide a safe and nonjudgmental place for our callers and texters to share.
Practice open and honest communication.
How do I become a volunteer for the Hey Sam text line?
According to the Samaritan website, "You can be the caring listener when someone texts Hey Sam."
Volunteers must be 15 to 24 years old, complete a thorough online training program, and be able to work a consistent 4-hour shift every week. Volunteers can work from anywhere in the world. If interested in volunteering, fill out an application on the Samaritan website.
How can older adults get help?
The National Alliance on Mental Illness stated that adults suffering from mental illness or suicidal thoughts can call 988 or chat 988lifeline.org if in need of immediate help.
As of July 16, 2022, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL) transitioned to the three digit number, 988. 988 is intended to create an ease of access to care and improve mental health response. As a member of the NSPL Network, Samaritans will be answering calls going to the 988 line. But the Samaritans phone number, 877-870-4673, is also still available for calls or text messages, 24/7.
This article originally appeared on wickedlocal.com: Peer-to-peer text line helps young people with mental health concerns
