Google introduces preset text messages for people in crisis

If you struggle with mental health issues, it can sometimes be very difficult to ask for help. Sounding the alarm is difficult, because sometimes you are very self-absorbed or think that no one will understand you. Google is trying to support people with a new feature: preset text messages. That way you can ask for help at the touch of a button, without putting the pressure on yourself to have to type a message yourself.

suicide prevention

Google is working with the International Association for Suicide Prevention to create pre-written text messages to make difficult conversations that happen when you’re having a mental crisis easier. The posts can be found if you use Google Search and search for 988 Suicide or Crisis Lifeline. You can go there in one swipe on your phone and select a message. It didn’t work when we tested it, but hopefully it will come to Google Search soon.

In any case, you will come to a special page if you search for 988 Suicide, which is known in the Netherlands if you search for 113, which refers to 0800-0113, the national number for suicide prevention. You will see that help is available and that you can talk to someone today. If you tap through, you will see information from all countries about organizations that can help during a psychological crisis. The new function would appear as a prompt when you search for 988. If you tap on ‘send a text’ then you go to your messaging app. It may (initially) only be available in the United States.

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The phrases you can choose range from “I’m having a hard time right now and just want to talk to someone – can we chat?” to some alarming messages like, “If you get the chance, can you contact me? I feel alone and suicidal and in desperate need of help.” Megan Jones Bell, director of consumer and mental health at Google, said: “When someone is in a vulnerable situation, it can be difficult to put this experience into words and know what to say to ask for help. These pre-written prompts, developed in collaboration with the expertise of the International Association for Suicide Prevention, reduce the stigma for asking for help, arguably helping people get support in times of crisis.”

If you are feeling suicidal or experiencing a mental crisis, it is crucial to seek help. You are not alone. Contact 0800-0113.