Dear Friends of 180,

As a mother myself, I know that our children and young teens don’t always turn to a parent when they need advice or are having challenges as they grow up. It’s not uncommon for young people to have obstacles that leave them feeling uncertain as they transition into adulthood. However, the reality is that children and teens need many options and supportive resources including their parents. While we may not be able to change the things that make our young people stressed, 180 Turning Lives Around is making it easier for them to get help. I encourage all parents to share with their child this information regarding 180’s 2NDFLOOR Youth Text and Helpline and make sure our app is on their phones.

 2NDFLOOR’s phone number to call or text is 888.222.2228. The 2ND FLOOR app can be downloaded for free at the App Store. 2NDFLOOR is accredited by the American Association of Suicidology and is a confidential and anonymous phone and text helpline which is available 24 hours, 7 days a week to New Jersey youth and young adults. 2NDFLOOR helps youth find solutions to the problems they face ranging from family struggles and bullying, to child abuse and suicide. 2NDFLOOR ensures that there is a safe place to turn regardless of the issue. We receive calls, texts and outreach daily with concerns and questions such as the following:
“I can’t help feeling so depressed.”
“My girlfriend mentioned wanting to kill herself.”
“I’m being bullied on social media.”
“I wish that I was this happy on the inside.”
“I think my friend might be doing drugs.”

At 2NDFLOOR there is always a caring and professionally trained person ready to listen. We ensure a safe exchange in an environment where youth are comfortable communicating whether by text messaging or phone. Youth have many options to access our help including:

May 17, 2018 is International Child Helpline Day. This year the focus is on using technology to support more youth worldwide. At 2NDFLOOR, technology is something we use every day to make getting help easy and accessible.
With the support of our community we plan to continue using technology to support and help youth as they navigate their world. If you would like to learn more about 2NDFLOOR, volunteer, or make a donation to support our youth outreach in our schools and community, please contact us here.

Sincerely,

Anna Diaz-White

Executive Director

180 Turning Lives Around, Inc.