Arkansas is preparing to launch its first peer-to-peer youth support text line later this year. The Arkansas Crisis Center in Bentonville is developing AR Teen Connect, which will train high school students to provide mental health support to their peers.

Program Details

Organizers said texting is one of the most common ways teens communicate and can be an effective way to reach them when they need support. Students will receive training in active listening, suicide prevention, crisis recognition, and peer support techniques. A trained adult will be available at all times to provide additional support and guidance when needed.

Olivia Bacon, a Haas Hall Academy senior participating in the program, said the training is helping her better understand coping skills and how to recognize warning signs when friends may be struggling. "It's so much easier to open up to someone their age. We feel that adults are not always able to understand our conversations. It's so important to have that bond," she said.

AR Teen Connect is expected to launch statewide on Sept. 1.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.