If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance that you’re a teenager.
And if you’re a teenager, there’s a very good chance that your life isn’t always smooth sailing. We’ve all been there. Confused, angry, depressed, anxious, hopeless. And often times, there isn’t anybody to talk to. Sure, you probably have close friends and great family, but sometimes you just can’t get the message across to them.
Luckily, there’s another way to let it out. You may have heard of the Kids Help Phone, a service that allows you to anonymously and confidentially talk to a counsellor on the phone or online. Right here in Calgary, there is now another route you can take: ConnecTeen. Like the Kids Help Phone, ConnecTeen provides you with support when you need it. What’s special about ConnecTeen is that you are connected with a fellow teenager who’s volunteered and been trained to be a supportive pair of ears.
Calling over the phone and having to talk audibly may not always be a solution for teens, so ConnecTeen has other options too. Along with calling them at 403-264-TEEN (8336), you can sign in and chat on their website, email ConnecTeen@distresscentre.com, or even type rather than talk by texting 587-333-2724.
Most importantly, remember that someone is always willing to talk to you, many, many people care about you, and you are an irreplaceable individual.
***If you are thinking of harming/killing yourself or others, please connect with help right away, even if that means dialing 911.