Question

As someone new to Minnesota and who also previously worked in Missouri on a crisis line, I was wondering if the Minnesota crisis line has the capacity or is set up to take calls from individuals who are deaf, deafblind, or hard of hearing. The crisis line where I trained had the specific phone equipment to take such calls, and I think it is very important. If it is already set up, kudos to Minnesota. If not, I would hope that is something that is in the works. Thank you.

Answer

Minnesota does not have a one-stop crisis line for Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing individuals seeking support for all types of crisis. However, there is a range of Deaf-specific resources available as well as Minnesota-based and national crisis lines that are accessible via text or online chat. Minnesota also has the option of texting to 911 for emergency situations; 911 is also accessible via TTY. 

ThinkSelf has a program focusing on supporting individuals who are experiencing unsafe relationships, assault, harassment, stalking, or general crime. They assist people in safety planning, exploring options, and navigating systems. ThinkSelf also works with the community in creating opportunities for healing, self-empowerment, and community accountability. Their videophone hotline and email are monitored during business hours. 

Outside of business hours, Minnesota has a statewide hotline - the Day One Crisis Line - for individuals concerned about their safety and those who are victims of general crime. Day One connects individuals with over 90 agencies around the state who provide shelter and resources. Since 2014, ThinkSelf and Day One have worked closely together to improve accessibility for Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing individuals via training, technical assistance, and co-advocacy. The Day One hotline is available via text, chat, and phone. They are trained in responding to video relay calls. Additionally, there is a national Deaf domestic violence hotline.

Resources

Here are some various resources available to Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing Minnesotans seeking support.

Relationship Concerns, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault & General Crime

• ThinkSelf Deaf Adult Education & Advocacy
  M-F 8am-5pm
  Videophone: 651-829-9089
  Email: advocates@thinkself.org
  Even if you’re not sure if ThinkSelf offers the service you need, please give them a call! They are happy to work with you to make sure you find the resources and support you deserve.
• Day One 24-Hour Crisis Line (domestic violence & sexual assault)
  Text: 612-399-9995
  Online chat (Click on "Chat Now" on the top, left corner)
  1-866-223-1111 (voice)
• Minnesota Crime Victim Support Line
  Text: 612-399-9977
  1-866-385-2699 (voice)
• National Domestic Violence Hotline - Deaf Services
  Instant Messenger or Email: nationaldeafhotline@adwas.org
  24/7 TTY: 1-800-787-3224
  24/7 Videophone: 1-855-812-1001

Additional Resources

• Crisis Text Line
  Crisis Text Line serves anyone, in any type of crisis, providing access to free, 24/7 support and information via text.
  Text “MN” to 741741
• Mental Health Crisis
  Mental health crisis resources in Minnesota will vary by city and county; refer to the Minnesota Department of Human Services Adult Mental Health Crisis Response Phone Numbers for the most current information available.
• People Incorporated
  For ongoing mental health support, People Inc. has Deaf Mental Health services.

General Questions about D/DB/HH Services

Not sure where to start? The Minnesota Department of Human Services Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Division (DHHSD) can offer advice on a range of topics including assistive technology, information about hearing loss, and mental health services.

Additional Information

• For this "Ask MNCDHH" question, MNCDHH decided to ask ThinkSelf, a Minnesota community organization that specializes in adult education and advocacy, to provide this response. We appreciate Maggie's and ThinkSelf's help. 
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