Hotline Hero Slides PROTOCOL 01
THE RIGHT
CALL
Differentiating 911, 988, and Specialized Crisis Support Services
Seconds Matter
In a crisis, the brain often defaults to 911. But is 911 always the right tool?
Case Study Hook
"Your friend is standing on a bridge. They aren't moving, but they look distressed. Who do you call?"
Choose Your Pathway
911
Dispatch & Rescue
Active fire or smoke
Crime in progress
Medical emergency (unconscious, bleeding)
Severe car accident
988
Counseling & Support
Suicidal ideation
Severe panic or anxiety
Overwhelming sadness
Worried about a friend's mood
The "Warm Line" Alternative
Level 1: 911
Immediate physical threat/rescue needed.
Level 2: 988
Crisis/Suicidal distress (National Lifeline).
Level 3: Warm Lines
Not a crisis, but need to talk to someone who understands.
Why use a Warm Line?
Peer-run support (people who have been there)
Reducing isolation
Preventing a crisis from escalating
Help finding long-term resources
Card Sorting Challenge
Look at the scenario on your worksheet. You have 10 seconds to decide:
911
988
WARM
Crisis Sorter Activity Crisis Sorter Activity
Decision Making & Resource Navigation
Student Name:
Date:
Instructions
Read each scenario below. Your task is to determine which resource is the most appropriate for that specific situation. For each scenario, check the correct box and briefly explain why you chose that resource.
Scenario A: The Distant Friend
"A friend sends you a text message at 11:00 PM saying they 'can't do this anymore' and that everyone would be better off without them. They aren't answering your follow-up calls."
911
988
Warm Line
Why is this the best choice?
Scenario B: The Neighborhood Smoke
"You are walking home and see thick black smoke billowing out of a neighbor’s garage. You can hear a faint alarm sounding inside, but nobody seems to be home."
911
988
Warm Line
Why is this the best choice?
Scenario C: The Stressful Week
"You've been feeling extremely lonely and anxious all week about your grades. You aren't in danger of hurting yourself, but you feel like you're about to snap and need someone to talk to."
911
988
Warm Line
Why is this the best choice?
Critical Thinking: The "Grey Area"
Sometimes a situation starts as a mental health crisis (988) but becomes a physical emergency (911). Describe one specific sign or indicator that would tell you it is time to switch from 988 to calling 911.
Navigation Notes Teacher Guide Teacher Resource
Navigation Notes
Lesson 1: The Right Call (911 vs. 988)
UNIT: CRISIS COMPASS
EST. TIME: 45-60 MIN
Learning Objectives
Differentiate between physical emergencies (911) and mental health crises (988).
Identify the appropriate level of intervention for peer-related distress.
Analyze high-pressure scenarios to make rapid, informed safety decisions.
Key Resources
911 (Rescue)
988 (Lifeline)
Warm Lines (Peer)
Facilitation Guide
HOOK (10M)
The Rapid Reflex Test
Present the "Bridge" scenario from the slide deck. Ask students to shout out 911 or 988. Use the division of answers to highlight the confusion between physical presence (on a bridge) and intent (mental health crisis).
"Teacher Tip: Emphasize that calling the wrong number isn't a failure—it's about learning the 'most efficient' tool. 911 dispatchers can transfer to 988, and vice-versa, but it adds precious seconds."
DIRECT (15M)
Defining the Thresholds
Use the comparison slides to define "Rescue" vs. "Counseling." Highlight that Warm Lines are for preventing the descent into crisis, while 988 is for when the crisis is active.
PRACTICE (20M)
The Crisis Sorter
Distribute the worksheet. Have students work in pairs to debate the "Why."
Scenario A Keys: Most 10th graders lean 911 because it's scary. Guide them to 988 as the first step for suicidal ideation, unless they know the person has active means/plan right now.
Scenario C Keys: This is a classic Warm Line scenario. No immediate danger, just high stress and a need for empathetic connection.
Discussion Questions
"What stops a teenager from calling 911 even when it's clearly a physical emergency?"
(Anticipated answers: Fear of police, getting in trouble, 'snitching' stigma.)
"Why might 988 feel safer than 911 for a mental health crisis?"
(Anticipated answers: Anonymous, trained counselors instead of armed responders, focused on talking.)
Common Misconceptions
"988 is just for suicide." (Correction: It is for any significant emotional distress, panic attacks, or substance use crises.)
"If I call 988, the police will show up." (Correction: Fewer than 2% of calls to 988 require an active rescue/police involvement.)
Lifeline Layers Slides Protocol 02
LIFELINE
NAVIGATION
Inside the 988 System: What Happens When You Call or Text?
Dispelling the Fear
The Myth
"If I call 988, they'll track my location and send the police to my house immediately."
The Reality
98 calls out of 100 are resolved over the phone.
Counselors focus on Collaborative Safety Planning.
You can remain anonymous.
Anatomy of a 988 Connection
STEP 1
The Greeting
"You've reached the lifeline, my name is..."
STEP 2
Active Listening
Sharing what's on your mind without judgment.
STEP 3
Risk Check
"Are you thinking about hurting yourself today?"
STEP 4
Safety Plan
Creating a roadmap to stay safe tonight.
Supporting a Friend
You don't have to be a counselor. You just have to be a bridge.
The Script:
"I'm really worried about you, and I want you to be safe. I know about this resource called 988. Can we text them together right now?"
3-Step Bridge
1 Validate feelings
2 Offer the resource
3 Stay present
Choose Your Mode
CALL 988
Best for immediate emotional release and hearing a human voice.
TEXT 988
Best for privacy, discreet situations, or if talking feels overwhelming.
Wait times are usually less than 2 minutes.
Peer Support Protocol Worksheet Peer Support Protocol
Lesson 2: Mental Health & Suicide Prevention
Student Name:
MISSION 02
The Bridge
Validate feelings
Offer the resource
Stay present
"You don't need to be a professional counselor to save a life. You just need to be the person who connects a friend in pain to the help they deserve."
Part 1: The "I-We" Script
Read the following peer support script. Identify why each part is important for de-escalating a situation and maintaining trust.
"I'm really worried about you, and I want you to be safe. I know about this resource called 988. Can we text them together right now?"
Why say "I want you to be safe"?
Why say "together right now"?
Part 2: Applying the Protocol
You are talking to a classmate who is overwhelmed. Draft a response using the 3-Step Bridge .
A
The "Overwhelmed" Peer
"I've failed two tests this week, my parents are fighting constantly, and I just feel like I'm drowning. I don't see the point in even trying anymore."
Step 1: Validate (What will you say to show you hear them?)
Step 2: Offer (How will you introduce 988?)
Step 3: Present (How will you offer to stay with them?)
B
The "Silent" Peer
A friend has been unusually quiet for weeks. You ask how they are, and they reply with: "It doesn't matter. Nothing matters. I'm just tired of being tired."
Draft your full "Bridge" response here:
Sensitive Scenarios Facilitator Guide Facilitator Guide
Sensitive Scenarios
Lesson 2: Lifeline Navigation (988)
Mental Health Focus
EST. TIME: 50 MIN
Trauma-Informed Practice
This lesson discusses suicidal ideation. Be aware that some students may have personal experience with this topic. Always provide an "opt-out" option for students who feel overwhelmed. Clearly state at the beginning of the lesson that you are available to talk afterward, or remind them of the school counselor's availability.
Key Talking Points
988 is for Everyone
You don't need to be "in the middle of an attempt" to call. You can call when you just feel the weight of life getting too heavy.
Asking the Question
Dispell the myth that "asking about suicide puts the idea in someone's head." Research shows it actually provides relief and a pathway to help.
The "Bridge" Role
Students are not responsible for "saving" the peer alone. Their only job is to provide the bridge to professional help.
Lesson Flow
10m
Myth vs. Reality: Use the slides to address fears about police and tracking.
15m
Call Anatomy: Walk through the 4 steps of a 988 call to humanize the process.
20m
Worksheet: Individual draft of the "Bridge" script followed by pair-share.
05m
Closing: Save 988 in phone contacts as "988 - Crisis Support".
Guidance for Part 2 Scenarios
Scenario A (The Overwhelmed Peer)
Watch for: Students who try to "fix" the problems (e.g., "I'll help you study!").
Correction: "Helping study is nice, but when someone says 'I don't see the point in trying,' that's a red flag for safety. Focus on safety first, then algebra later."
Scenario B (The Silent Peer)
Watch for: Students who might feel awkward about 'prying'.
Correction: "It's okay to feel awkward. Awkwardness is a small price to pay for safety. Use the 'I've noticed...' format to keep it objective."
Teacher Safety Protocol
If a student discloses current suicidal intent or a specific plan during this lesson:
Do not leave the student alone.
Notify school administration or the crisis team immediately.
Ensure a handoff to a mental health professional happens before the student leaves your sight.
Safety First Slides Protocol 03
SAFETY FIRST
Discretion, Digital Footprints, and Domestic Violence Support
The Discretion Threshold
In a domestic violence crisis, the greatest danger often comes when someone tries to leave or get help.
The Priority: SAFETY
Standard crisis advice (talking loudly, being public) can be dangerous in these situations.
NDVH Protocol
QUICK ESCAPE
What is this for?
Websites like thehotline.org have a "Quick Escape" button on every page. One click instantly closes the site and opens a neutral page (like Google or Weather.com).
"It does not erase your browser history, but it stops you from being seen on the site in that moment."
Erasing the Evidence
Call History
NDVH (800-799-SAFE) will show up on a phone bill. Calling from a library or a safe friend's phone is safer.
Search History
Incognito mode isn't enough on shared devices. Use a public computer for safety planning research.
Location Services
"Find My" apps or shared family tracking should be turned off if safe, but beware—turning it off can alert the tracker.
Essential Safety Planning
The "Go Bag"
Trusted Contacts
Code Words
A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan that includes ways to remain safe while in a relationship, planning to leave, or after you leave. NDVH counselors specialize in helping people build these step-by-step.
Safety Plan Blueprint Worksheet Safety Plan Blueprint
Lesson 3: Domestic Violence & Safety Protocols
STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL
Part 1: The Digital Footprint
In Lesson 3, we discussed how calling for help can sometimes increase risk. For each of the "Digital Tracks" below, list one way to make accessing resources safer.
Phone Call Logs
"How can I call the National Domestic Violence Hotline without it appearing on my shared bill?"
Browser History
"How can I research safety plans if someone is monitoring my computer or phone search history?"
Part 2: Safety Plan Anatomy
A safety plan is a collection of actions that can help a person stay safer when in a dangerous relationship. Explain the purpose behind these three common safety plan components.
The "Go Bag"
Includes: ID, extra keys, cash, important documents, medications.
Why is this essential for a fast exit?
The "Code Word"
A neutral word used in a text or call to alert a friend to call for help.
Why is a code word safer than a direct request for help?
The "Public Place"
Choosing to end a relationship in a public library, coffee shop, or with a third party.
What role does "audience" play in a safety protocol?
Critical Connection
"I was always told to call 911 if I'm scared. Why might someone in a domestic violence situation choose to call the National Hotline (800-799-SAFE) instead of calling 911 immediately?"
Discreet Support Teacher Guide Teacher Resource
Discreet Support
Lesson 3: Safety Planning Protocols (DV focus)
UNIT: CRISIS COMPASS
EST. TIME: 45-50 MIN
The Safety First Mindset
In most crisis training, we emphasize "Tell a trusted adult immediately." While usually good advice, in Domestic Violence (DV) contexts, telling the wrong person or telling at the wrong time can escalate danger. This lesson teaches students to prioritize discretion and professional planning .
Teaching the "Quick Escape"
"If possible, show a live demonstration of the 'thehotline.org' website and the escape button."
Explain that this button is for immediate physical privacy . It does not erase history. This leads into the "Digital Footprint" discussion—stress that students should never delete history all at once, as a suddenly "clean" browser can be a red flag to a controlling partner.
Safety Plan Logic
Use the worksheet analysis to ensure students understand the functional purpose of each item:
The "Go Bag"
It's about time . In a violent moment, you don't have 10 minutes to find your birth certificate and inhaler. You have 10 seconds.
Code Words
It's about discretion . If someone is monitoring your texts, "I'm making tacos" is safer than "Call the police right now."
Critical Discussion Questions
"Why do people stay in dangerous relationships?"
Teacher Note: Guide students away from victim-blaming. Focus on barriers like: lack of money, fear of more violence if they leave, love/loyalty, and isolation from help.
"Why call a hotline instead of just 911?"
Teacher Note: 911 is for 'right now' rescue. Hotline counselors help with 'what happens tomorrow' planning. They provide shelter locations, legal aid, and long-term exit strategies.
A Reminder for Your Students
At the end of class, ensure every student has these numbers in their phone. They might not need it today, but they might need to give it to a friend tomorrow.
NDVH: 800-799-7233 TEXT: "START" TO 88788
Good Samaritan Slides Protocol 04
GOOD
SAMARITAN
Substance Use Intervention & Medical Amnesty Laws
The Overdose Dilemma
The #1 reason people hesitate to call 911 during a drug or alcohol emergency is fear of legal trouble.
The Risk:
"Will the police arrest me for being at a party? Will they charge me with possession? Will I get expelled?"
The Solution: Amnesty
Medical Amnesty (Good Samaritan) Laws protect people who call for medical assistance in an emergency.
The Goal:
SAVE LIVES FIRST,
Specialized Resources
SAMHSA
Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration
Referral to treatment
Advice for family members
Support for recovery
800-662-HELP
POISON HELP
National Poison Control Center
Accidental ingestion
Medication mixing
Chemical exposure
800-222-1222
Choosing the Channel
911
Overdose
Blue lips, shallow breathing, unresponsive. This is a life-or-death emergency.
SAMHSA
Addiction
"My brother is using opioids and wants to stop. Where do we go for help?"
POISON
Mistake
"I took my morning pills twice by accident. Should I be worried?"
Debate: The Legal Shield
A 16-year-old calls 911 because their friend is unresponsive after drinking. When the police arrive, they find illegal drugs on the table.
Should the caller be arrested?
YES
NO
Legal Shield Analysis Worksheet Legal Shield Analysis
Lesson 4: Substance Use & Good Samaritan Laws
Student:
MISSION 04
Part 1: Identifying the Target
Match the following situations to the most effective specialized resource. Note: 911 is always for life-threatening medical emergencies.
911 Emergency Rescue
SAMHSA Recovery/Treatment
POISON Mistakes/Chemicals
Scenario Best Resource Why? "My friend is breathing very slowly and I can't wake them up."
|
| "I'm worried my sister is becoming addicted to her painkillers." |
|
|
| "I took an extra dose of my ADHD meds by mistake." |
|
|
Part 2: The Good Samaritan Law
Case Study: The Party Call
Leo (16) is at a party where people are using alcohol and illegal substances. His friend Jordan becomes unresponsive. Leo knows if he calls 911, the police will come to a house full of illegal activity. Leo is terrified of being arrested or his parents finding out.
The Hesitation: What is the primary barrier preventing Leo from calling?
The Protection: How does a "Good Samaritan" law change Leo's risk level?
The Ethics: In your opinion, why should the law protect people who are breaking one rule (drug use) while trying to follow another (saving a life)?
Critical Literacy Check
Amnesty laws often only protect the caller and the victim from possession charges. They usually do not protect against high-level crimes like trafficking or violent offenses. Always check your specific state's "911 Good Samaritan" law.
Health Literacy Facilitator Guide Facilitator Guide
Health Literacy
Lesson 4: Good Samaritan Laws & Substance Use
Legal & Health Focus
EST. TIME: 45 MIN
Lesson Objectives
Identify specific resources for substance use (SAMHSA) and accidental poisoning (Poison Control).
Explain the primary purpose and general protections of Good Samaritan/Medical Amnesty laws.
Analyze the barriers to seeking help during a substance-related medical emergency.
Core Numbers
911 (Rescue)
SAMHSA: 800-662-4357
POISON: 800-222-1222
Facilitating the Debate
Use the "Legal Shield" debate prompt from the slides. Divide the room or use a "Four Corners" strategy.
Counter-Arguments (YES to arrest)
"Breaking the law should have consequences."
"Drugs are dangerous and the law should deter their use."
"Police need to investigate where the drugs came from."
Supportive Arguments (NO to arrest)
"Dead people cannot be rehabilitated or go to jail; life comes first."
"Fear of arrest leads to abandoned bodies and avoidable deaths."
"The caller is showing responsibility in a crisis."
The "Know Your State" Nuance
Good Samaritan laws vary significantly by state. Some states protect the victim but not the caller. Some only protect against small amounts of possession.
"Teacher Tip: Have students do a 5-minute 'Live Search' for your specific state's Good Samaritan law. Ask: 'In our state, are we protected if we call 911 for an overdose?'"
Worksheet Keys
911 vs SAMHSA
Students often confuse these. Remind them: 911 is for the physical body failing right now . SAMHSA is for the habit/addiction/recovery journey .
Ethical Analysis
Look for students to identify "The Greater Good." The laws are based on the public health principle that saving a life is a higher priority than enforcing a minor drug infraction in that specific moment.
Action Plan Slides Protocol 05
THE CRISIS
WALLET
Building Your Personal & Peer Resource Action Plan
Your Survival Kit
Today, you are synthesizing everything you've learned into a single, accessible Crisis Wallet.
The Goal
"To have the right number for the right crisis, ready to use in under 10 seconds."
3 Parts of the Wallet:
1 Core Emergency Lines
2 Specialized Safety Resources
3 The Peer Support Script
The "Digital" First Step
Saved Contacts
Create a contact named "Crisis Lifeline" or "988 - Mental Health" . Save both the number and the text code.
988
Notes App Folder
Pin a note titled "CRISIS WALLET" with the peer support script you wrote in Lesson 2.
"I'm worried... let's text 988 together."
The Physical Template
Some phones die. Some situations require us to leave our tech behind.
A physical, foldable wallet card is a failsafe.
Fits in a phone case
Fits in a real wallet
Can be given to a friend discreetly
Card Layout
911
988
NDVH
SAMHSA
Personal Contact / Code Word
Ready to Respond
You are now equipped with the knowledge to navigate some of life's hardest moments.
You are the bridge.
"Be the person you'd want a friend to call."
Resource Wallet Project Template Project: Crisis Wallet
Culminating Performance Task
Mission Brief
You are creating a physical "failsafe" resource card. This card must be accurate, comprehensive, and legible . Once completed, you will cut this out and keep it in your wallet or phone case.
ACCURACY
LEGIBILITY
UTILITY
Cut Out Size
3.5" x 2.0"
(Standard Business Card Size)
Front of Card
CRISIS COMPASS
Emergency 911
Mental Health/Lifeline 988
Domestic Violence
Substance/Amnesty
Back of Card
Peer Support Script
"I'm really worried about you, and I want you to be safe. I know about this resource called 988. Can we text them together right now?"
Your Code Word / Safe Contact:
Always valid. Never alone.
Part 2: Digital Integration Checklist
Save 988 as a Contact
Contact Name: "Crisis Support" or similar.
Pin Peer Script in Notes
Copy your script into a pinned note for fast copy-pasting.
Download Resource App
Recommended: NDVH "Bright Sky" or similar safety apps.
Emergency Contact SOS
Set up your "Emergency SOS" feature on your smartphone.
The Utility Test
"You see a friend struggling in the hallway. You have exactly 30 seconds before class starts. How does having this card/contact ready change your ability to help?"
Crisis Project Rubric Assessment Tool
Project Mastery Rubric
Culminating Project: The Crisis Wallet
UNIT: CRISIS COMPASS
TOTAL POINTS: 20
Criteria Mastery (4-5) Approaching (2-3) Emerging (0-1) Resource Accuracy All four specialized hotline numbers (988, NDVH, SAMHSA, Poison) are 100% correct and correctly labeled. Most numbers are correct, but 1-2 errors exist in digits or labeling. Multiple errors in numbers or resources are mismatched to their crisis type. Peer Support Logic Peer script includes all 3 steps (Validate, Offer, Present) and uses empathetic, non-judgmental language. Script is present but misses one of the 3 steps or language is slightly authoritative. Script is missing or provides unsafe advice (e.g., trying to "fix" the problem alone). Safety Planning Depth Digital checklist is fully complete; personal code word/contact is thoughtful and practical. Checklist is mostly complete; personal contact info is present but generic. Checklist is incomplete; no evidence of personal safety planning. Utility & Legibility Card is neatly organized, easy to read in a hurry, and cut to fit a standard wallet/phone case. Card is legible but handwriting or layout is cluttered; sizing is slightly off. Card is difficult to read; format is not practical for wallet storage.
Evaluator Feedback
Strengths
Areas for Growth
Total Score:
/ 20
Mastery (18-20)
Proficient (14-17)
"Preparation is the antidote to panic. By completing this resource, you have taken a proactive step in protecting yourself and your community."
