We are excited to share that our students are able to now use text messaging to reach out for help for themselves or for friends at any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
TEXT A TIP allows students to find anonymous, immediate help from a licensed professional if they are struggling with substance abuse, depression, difficult family or peer situations, bullying, or any of the many challenges they might face at school or at home. TEXT A TIP is staffed with local counselors provided by LEAD (Linking Efforts Against Drugs), a non-profit organization focused on promoting healthy family relationships and preventing alcohol and drug use, and other risk behaviors in youth. The response team consists of licensed/certified mental health professionals from the Child, Adolescent, and Family Recovery Center (CAFRC) in Lake Bluff. This service is currently used in Lake Forest and Lake Bluff, as well as throughout McHenry and Lake Counties.
TEXT A TIP has been brought to the township through a collaboration between New Trier Township, community organizations in Wilmette, the other sender middle schools, and New Trier High School.
In the coming days, Highcrest and WJHS students will receive information about TEXT A TIP, and how it works:
Students seeking help send a text to: 274-637
Students then enter the following access code with their a short description of the problem:NSHELP5678
Example: NSHELP5678 I need help.
The student will immediately receive a text response from one of the trained counselors at the CAFRC, who will help guide the child.
All students texting are completely anonymous, allowing the freedom to reach out for help without fear. In the event of a serious situation requiring immediate attention, emergency responders will be notified and given as much information as possible to help the person in crisis. Please note that adults can also use the service to report concerns.
For more information about TEXT A TIP please click HERE .
Thank you for your partnership and support of the social and emotional wellness of our children.