Anyone aged 11 to 25 living in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes with mental health concerns can can text the word REFLECT to 85258 to be connected to a trained Shout Volunteer, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The service can help with issues such as anxiety, stress, loneliness, depression and suicidal thoughts.
The conversation, which takes place entirely by text message, aims to help the person texting reach a calmer place with a plan to move forward. It will also signpost them to further support available locally.
Sarah Breton, Associate Director for Children and Maternity Commissioning at Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, said: “We heard from young people that they often find it much easier to communicate via text rather than over the phone, so we’re pleased to be able to provide people aged 11 to 25 across Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes mental health support via Mental Health Innovations’ text messaging support service.
“The service can help with a range of issues, including anxiety, bullying, depression, loneliness, suicidal thoughts, and more. It’s free, anonymous and won’t show up on your phone bill.
“If you are struggling to cope and need to talk, text REFLECT to 85258 and you’ll be connected with a trained Shout Volunteer.”