4/11/20 - Message to Providers from Secretary Hou: Call4Calm Emotional Support Line

Saturday, April 11, 2020

Dear Partners,

The Illinois Department of Human Services' Mental Health Division has launched a free-of-charge emotional support text line, Call4Calm, for Illinois residents experiencing stress and mental health issues related to COVID-19. Individuals who would like to speak with a mental health professional can text "TALK" to 5-5-2-0-2-0, or for Spanish, "HABLAR" to the same number (Message and Data Rates May Apply. See Terms & Conditions of Use).

Call4Calm is free to use, and individuals will remain anonymous. Once a resident sends a text to the hotline, within 24 hours they will receive a call from a counselor employed by a local community mental health center to provide support.

Individuals can also text 5-5-2-0-2-0, with key words such as "unemployment" or "food" or "shelter" and will receive information on how navigate and access supports and services.

Click here to find the Governor's press release about Call4Calm, telehealth programs, and the Governor's Youth Town Hall.

Sincerely,

Grace B. Hou

Secretary, IDHS