A new NY state law, which passed in June, requires that the 988 suicide prevention hotline and Crisis Text Line’s numbers (741741) be placed on the back of student IDs starting in 2025.
Data shows that the youth mental health epidemic has only gotten worse over the years, including New York statistics which show a decline in youth mental health over the past decade. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-14 and 20-34.
As students head back to school, it is critical for them to have access to mental health resources due to the myriad of challenges they face, including academic pressure, social dynamics, and personal issues. These stressors can significantly impact their mental well-being, making it essential for them to know where to turn for support.
“Easy access to mental health resources, such as crisis hotlines and counseling services, can provide immediate assistance in moments of distress, helping students navigate their emotions and cope with challenges,” said Courtney Hunter, VP of Public Policy at Crisis Text Line. “One often overlooked resource for the younger generation is the student ID card, which can be used to access mental health services. Reaching out for support is not only vital for students’ academic success but also for their overall mental health, resilience, and long-term well-being.”
The New York law (Senate Bill S1865) applies to institutions of higher education that issue student IDs. While many other state student ID bills cover middle and high schools, New York has chosen to address colleges and universities so that young adults ages 18-24 may have greater awareness of these life-saving resources.
“The ‘Student Lifeline Act’ is a significant step in our effort to support our students who are struggling with their mental health,” said Assembly Member Daniel O’Donnell. “I am immensely grateful for Assembly Member Clark’s leadership and hard work in getting this bill passed. By placing suicide hotlines on student ID cards, this initiative not only destigmatizes mental health concerns but also provides direct access to the resources students urgently need during a crisis. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students in the United States and disproportionately affects LGBTQ+ students. Awareness of these resources may be the difference between life and death for many of New York’s young people.”
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Over 8 million middle and high school students (grades 6-12) in 12 states (CA, DE, IL, MO, NH, OK, SC, TX, WA, WI, WV, NJ,) and nearly 1 million college students in New York now have 988 and Crisis Text Line’s numbers printed on the back of all student IDs as a mental health resource available to them.
“The Student Lifeline Act will save lives, and I am immensely proud to have carried and passed this legislation in the Assembly,” said Assemblywoman Sarah Clark. “Suicide is the second leading cause of death for college students in the United States, and too many students consider suicide, attempt suicide, or cause intentional injury to themselves. When faced with these thoughts, it is vital that students throughout New York are aware of immediate resources. Ensuring the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and Crisis Text Line/text 741741 are always easily accessible by including them on student ID cards is critically important. Thank you to partners at SUNY, CUNY, and private colleges throughout the state for their feedback and partnership as we work to make a difference in the lives of our students.”
Those seeking free, 24/7, confidential and nonjudgmental mental health support can connect via text, web chat and WhatsApp in English and Spanish. To reach a live, trained volunteer Crisis Counselor, text HELLO to 741741 or 443-SUPPORT in WhatsApp. You can also text HOLA to 741741 or 442-AYUDAME in WhatsApp for Spanish.
Crisis Text Line
Crisis Text Line is a nonprofit organization that provides free, 24/7, confidential and nonjudgmental text-based mental health support in English and Spanish. Since its launch in 2013, Crisis Text Line has engaged in more than 10 million crisis conversations and trained over 75,000 volunteers to support people in their moments of need. Crisis Text Line is committed to creating an empathetic world where nobody feels alone. Individuals seeking confidential support can connect with us via text, web chat and WhatsApp. To be connected to a live, trained volunteer Crisis Counselor, text HELLO to 741741 or 443-SUPPORT in WhatsApp or text HOLA to 741741 or 442-AYUDAME in WhatsApp for Spanish or connect with us via web chat.
Visit Crisis Text Line on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Additional information, including how to become a volunteer or how to support Crisis Text Line through donations or partnerships, is available at www.crisistextline.org.
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