Depending on where you’re located in the world, not all of these hotlines will be accessible in your area, but there should be something else that’s similar and local to you or some type of local equivalent. You can search for “teenage helplines in (the name of your country)”.
First things first: Never, ever feel like you’re being a burden by calling a hotline. These numbers exist and have funding to help people exactly like you. These resources exist to be used. It’s not your job to try to decide whether whatever you’re struggling with is a “big enough” problem or not.
If there’s something going on in your life that you need help with, it’s worth calling. Trust us. The people waiting on the other end of the teen helpline are there to help you, they want you to call in. If they could tell you one thing right now, they would be begging you to make the call.
Don’t Be Shy to Call a Hotline for Teens, They’re Meant for YOU!
Ok, we needed to get that out of the way, because way too many teens avoid taking advantage of resources like these because they think their problems aren’t bad enough, or they don’t want to be a burden or to take resources away from someone who needs them more. That’s very thoughtful, but when it comes to hotlines for teenagers, they have the resources in place specifically to help people like you, and the person who called before you, and the person who calls next – no matter how big, or small, their problems are.
Next, if you’re in immediate danger, don’t hesitate to call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number. Once again, that’s what 911 is for. You aren’t being a burden, you aren’t being a nuisance, you could be saving a life (Your own? Or someone else’s. Either way, it’s worth a call.)
Here are some specific hotlines for teens that you can call for help:
National Suicide Hotline
If you are thoughts of self-harm, please take a minute to call a helpline, just to see what they have to say. It won’t hurt to listen. They won’t be able to fix every single problem in your life instantly, but they can help you take the next step towards turning things around.
There’s a misconception that you have to be moments away from ending your life to call on a hotline like this, but if you’re even having the slightest ideations, that’s a great time to reach out for help because they can help to equip you with the tools to overcome this before it gets bad enough that you’re taking steps in the wrong direction.
Call 1-800-273-8255 or visit their website.
Crisis Textline: A Texting Hotline for Teens
This 24/7 hotline is available via text messages. Sometimes, it’s just easier to text instead of speaking, especially when you’re in a crisis. They’ll communicate with you on your terms, and help you find the resources that you need to overcome whatever you’re dealing with.
Text “HELLO” to 741741 or visit their website
GLBT National Help Center
This is a hotline for LGBTQ+ youth who are going through a difficult time. They are not open 24/7, they’re open 1pm – 9pm pacific on weekdays, 9-2 pm on Saturdays, and 12 – 5pm on Sundays.
Call 1800-246-PRIDE (7743) or visit their website
Trans Lifeline
His is a 24/7 hotline staffed by volunteers who all identity as trans, and have education and training to help with a number of issues that trans people experience. Trans people can, of course, call any of the other helplines for teens listed on this page, but sometimes knowing that the person answering the phone is going to be an ally, and probably has a pretty good idea of what you’re going through, can make it that much easier to pick up the phone.
U.S. (877) 565-8860, Canada (877) 330-6366 or visit their website
RAINN’s Hotline
This is an LGBT-inclusive hotline that offers support to victims of abuse and assault. It’s not exclusively for LGBT people, so if you’ve suffered any type of abuse or assault, they’re waiting to talk to you and to help you deal with it.
1-800-656-HOPE 24/7 or visit their website for online counseling
The Trevor Project
This is another organization for LGBTQ teenagers who would like to speak to a counselor. They have trained people standing by 24/7, and you can reach out to them through a phonecall, a text message, or even a chat on their website.
Visit their website for counseling
Need more help than a helpline for teens?
If you’re dealing with something that isn’t addressed above, please don’t hesitate to visit a search engine and to look for something more specific. Your school may have additional resources or they should be able to help point you in the right direction if you’re dealing with something.
For instance, if you are having issues with substances or you can’t stop drinking. Also, you can leave a comment so that we can add additional resources, but once again – if you’re currently in crisis, don’t wait. Make the call to a hotline for teens ASAP because there are people waiting by to assist you, or just to hear you out if you need someone to talk or text with.
