How does Crisis Text Line work for students?

Students can text 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor at any time, for free and anonymously. The service allows the individual to define what counts as a crisis, whether it's anxiety about school, a relationship issue, or suicidal thoughts.

How do schools partner with Crisis Text Line?

Crisis Text Line offers formal partnerships with K-12 schools and districts that include access to customized usage reports and mental health resources. These partnerships help schools promote the service to students and staff while gaining insights into community mental health trends.

What misconceptions exist about using crisis text services?

A common misconception is that crisis lines are only for life-threatening emergencies. Crisis Text Line emphasizes that any form of emotional distress qualifies, and users are encouraged to reach out for any situation that feels overwhelming, not just suicidal crises.

Connecting in Crisis: How Schools and Crisi...

Connecting in Crisis: How Schools and Crisis Text Line Support Student Wellbeing

In this episode of the School Safety Today podcast, Dr. Amy Grosso interviews Jana French of Crisis Text Line about how the organization supports student mental health, particularly during the back-to-school season. They discuss how Crisis Text Line allows individuals to self-define their crisis, the value of school partnerships, and how to address common misconceptions about crisis services. The episode highlights actionable tools and resources available to both students and educational institutions.

This story was produced through MarketScale. See how Education Technology teams put it to work with Executive Thought Leadership.

Promoted content from Raptor Technologies on MarketScale.

By theresa.sullivan · August 12, 2025, 1:00 PM UTC741-741 Text LineAnonymous Crisis SupportBack-to-school Mental HealthCommunity Partnership Director

Key takeaways

Crisis Text Line offers free, anonymous support by texting 741741, letting individuals define what constitutes their own crisis.

The organization partners with schools to provide customized reports, resources, and expanded access to mental health services.

Common misconceptions about crisis services are addressed, emphasizing that support is available for a wide range of emotional distress—not only suicidal situations.

School Safety Today podcast, presented by Raptor Technologies.

In this episode of School Safety Today, Dr. Amy Grosso speaks with Jana French of Crisis Text Line about the essential role the organization plays in supporting mental health, especially among students during the back-to-school season. They explore how Crisis Text Line empowers individuals to define their own crises, the impact of strategic school partnerships, and how to promote mental well-being in school communities. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions about crisis services and highlights accessible tools for both individuals and institutions.

KEY POINTS:

Crisis Text Line provides support to people in distress by allowing them to text 741741 for help.
The individual determines what counts as a crisis, whether it’s a breakup or a suicidal situation.
Crisis Text Line partners with schools providing access to customized reports and resources.

Jana French is the Community Partnerships Director at Crisis Text Line, where she leads a team of 3 in building and managing strategic partnerships with community organizations, such as nonprofits, governments, and educational institutions. These critical partnerships assist Crisis Text Line in reaching more people who need mental health and crisis services, recruit new volunteers, and generate revenue for the organization. Jana also manages the organization’s work with 988, the national suicide prevention hotline, ensuring compliance and coordination with federal and state agencies. With over 7 years of experience in nonprofit partnerships, Jana has a passion for creating social impact and improving mental health outcomes.