Crisis hotline facts for kids
Crisis hotlines are special telephone numbers. People can call these numbers to get quick help and advice. These lines offer support right away when someone is feeling overwhelmed or upset.
Since the 1970s, many places around the United States have had these important lines. At first, they were mainly for people feeling very sad or hopeless. Now, they also help with many other problems. These include family problems, strong emotions, and feeling very down or worried. There are even special text and call lines just for teenagers.
How Crisis Hotlines Began
Crisis hotlines started to help people who needed someone to talk to right away. They offer a safe place to share feelings and get support.
Early Hotlines in the United States
The first crisis help line in the United States began in 1958. It was called the Los Angeles Suicide Prevention Center. This center used trained volunteers. These volunteers answered calls all day and night, every day of the week.
Another important hotline started in San Francisco in 1962. It was known as "Call Bruce."
Hotlines Around the World
A similar service began in Australia in 1963. It was called Lifeline. This showed that people all over the world needed this kind of help.
In 1968, Lifelink Samaritans Tas. Inc. started in Launceston, Tasmania. This service was created to help people who were feeling a lot of emotional pain. It was for those who found it hard to talk with their family or friends. This hotline also answered calls 24 hours a day across Tasmania.
