RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — In response to increasing mental health challenges among teens, particularly in the wake of Hurricane Helene and the stresses of the holiday season, North Carolina has launched a new digital platform to provide ongoing mental health support for teenagers.
Two years after the establishment of the 988 Suicide Crisis Lifeline, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has observed a significant increase in the use of the service, particularly among teens aged 12 to 18. While the lifeline offers immediate support via calls and texts, state officials recognized the need for a service that would provide sustained, ongoing care.
“We’ve seen a significant uptake in utilization, especially with the talk and text features from kids aged 12 to 18,” said Kelly Crosbie, director of the NC Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services. “They are reaching out for help, but that is more of an immediate response line. We knew we needed something more.”
To meet this need, the state has partnered with Somethings, a new digital platform tailored specifically to teens aged 13 to 19. The platform connects young users with certified peer specialists—individuals who have overcome similar mental health challenges and are trained to provide support. The platform also includes licensed clinical supervisors to ensure the safety of users.
Patrick Gilligan, CEO of Somethings, explained the mission behind the platform, which he said was born out of his own struggles with mental health as a teenager. “I faced many of the same challenges that today’s teens face—difficulty finding providers who relate to me, dealing with long waitlists, and not being able to find the support I needed,” Gilligan said. “Somethings was created to help bridge that gap.”
The partnership between NCDHHS and Somethings, which began in October, ensures that every teen in North Carolina, across all 100 counties, has free and anonymous access to mental health support. This initiative is aimed at helping young people navigate the everyday stressors of life while also providing them with tools to cope with larger-scale challenges like natural disasters.
“We want to ensure that teens know they matter,” Crosbie said. “No one will know that you reached out for help, and there’s no need to feel embarrassed. You are important, and you matter greatly.”
The platform is anonymous and free to use, offering a safe space for teens to seek help without fear of judgment. “Tomorrow needs you. We need you,” Crosbie added, emphasizing the importance of mental health and the state’s commitment to supporting young people.
Looking ahead, state officials hope to continue expanding mental health services and to maintain the partnership with Somethings long-term, ensuring that every North Carolina teen has access to the support they need.
Related topics:
