Mental Help to Teenagers through a Text Message

Young people between the ages of 13 and 20 who have Medicaid can access the mental health support service through text messages, thanks to the program developed in partnership with the company MindRight in Washington D.C. 

It is designed with the understanding that many times young people cannot easily access their school counselor’s office, are afraid to talk to a relative, or feel embarrassed to express what they feel to a friend. Trainers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

“We know that so many young people, by virtue of the realities they’re living day to day, have to be so strong and only show strength day to day, because that’s how they cope.”

Andrea Swalec|NBC WASHINGTON