If a student is in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, or is experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately. Do not leave the student alone.

2. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

For a student who is having thoughts of suicide or is in emotional crisis, call or text 988 (the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or chat at 988lifeline.org. The Lifeline is free, confidential, and available 24/7 in English and Spanish. Calls to 988 are routed to a locally trained crisis counselor. For a mental health or substance-use crisis, you can also call or text 988, press option 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line, or press option 2 for the Spanish-language line.

3. Other Crisis Resources

The Crisis Text Line offers free, 24/7 support by texting HOME to 741741. TrevorLifeline (for LGBTQ+ youth) can be reached at 1-866-488-7386 or by texting START to 678-678. For a comprehensive list of crisis lines, visit FindYourSupportLine.org or the SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-4357), a free, confidential treatment referral service.

4. For Educators Teaching Mental Health Content

Before delivering lessons covering mental health, self-harm, or suicide prevention, review the lesson for students who may be personally affected, and connect with your school counselor, school social worker, or crisis team in advance. Remind students before sensitive lessons that they may speak privately with a trusted adult, and never use a lesson as a substitute for professional support. Follow your district's suicide-prevention and response protocols, which may include a comprehensive school safety plan.

5. A Caring, Non-Alarmist Approach

Discussing mental health with students reduces stigma and encourages help-seeking. Frame these conversations with care: emphasize that mental health challenges are common and treatable, that seeking help is a sign of strength, and that students are not alone. Avoid graphic detail and avoid language that could glorify or suggest self-harm methods.

6. This Site Is Not a Crisis Service

Becoming U is an educational resource and is not a crisis or treatment service. If you or a student need immediate support, use the crisis resources above or contact a licensed professional in your area.