Parenting Tips: Hotlines for Teens

Hotlines at Your Fingertips

Parents try to get their teens to talk about issues that are bothering the kids. Yet, for whatever the reasons, many teens are reluctant to talk to parents about problems in their lives. Having a list of hotlines easily available in the home will enable teens to use these numbers for emergencies and in private. Post a hotlines phone number and information sheet on the refrigerator door, bathroom mirror or teen's bed. Sometimes it is just easier for a teen to talk to someone on one of the hotlines then to the other adults in the home. Parents and caregivers that view hotlines as a resource could save a teen's life when the teen is in crisis. Hotlines for teens are confidential.

The National Hopeline Network: 1-800-784-2433

The National Hopeline Network hotline is nationwide. Calls are routed to a suicide center near the caller. This hotline is excellent for teens that are having depression, self-esteem issues or suicidal thoughts. It is reported that an average of 40% of the calls received by these types of hotlines are from callers between the ages of 14 and 24 years. This hotline is a 24 hour hotline.

National Eating Disorders Association: 1-800-931-2237

Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia are issues that many teens face. The hotline is staffed during specific hours but a confidential voice mailbox is set up for teens to leave a message. The staff is prompt at returning calls. The purpose of the hotline is to connect teens with local support groups and treatment centers.

Girls and BoysTown National Hotline: 1-800-448-3000

The Girls and Boys Town National Hotline is set up to handle social concerns and stressors facing teens. This hotline handles topics such as fighting with parents, dealing with divorced parents, bullying, sexual assault and drug abuse.

Poison Control Centers: 1-800-222-1222