Safe2Help Illinois also has 24/7 help available via a hotline (844-4-SAFEIL), a text line (72332), and email (HELP@Safe2HelpIL.com) -- plus a website full of resources for young people seeking help for themselves or a friend. Safe2Help Illinois provides a confidential way for students to share safety concerns.

Its Ways To Get Help page is a directory of specialized hotlines, and other sections of its website provide practical steps for dealing with depression or helping a distraught friend.

The checklist called 20 Questions To Ask Yourself If You Feel Like Giving Up can help a teenager overcome a bout of anxiety or depression.  

Ways to get help:

  • Contact Safe2Help Illinois: Dial 844-4-SAFEIL, Text SAFE2 (72332), email HELP@Safe2HelpIL.com 

  • Dial 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 

  • Text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line 

  • Text-a-Tip: 24/7 anonymous support for students who need help for themselves or a friend. Text "LAKECO" to 1-844-823-5323 to connect with a local fully licensed mental health professional.