Rachel LeBeau has spent 16 years working at Cathedral Home, supporting youth in need. Now serving as Advancement Director, she is passionate about ensuring young people have the resources to navigate life’s challenges. One of the most significant initiatives she’s involved in is the WYO Crisis Text Line, a free, confidential service that connects people with trained crisis counselors via text, anytime they need support.

What is the WYO Crisis Text Line?

By texting WYO to 741741, anyone in Wyoming can access immediate, anonymous support from trained crisis counselors 24/7. “One of the best things about the text line is that it meets people where they are,” Rachel explains. “Not everyone feels comfortable making a phone call about their struggles. This service ensures they can get help right away, no matter where they are.”

Why is This Important for Wyoming?

Wyoming’s rural landscape can make mental health services difficult to access, with many communities lacking local therapists or crisis centers. The WYO Crisis Text Line bridges this gap by providing instant, location-independent support.

The partnership with Crisis Text Line also provides Cathedral Home with non-identifiable data to better understand mental health needs across the state. “We can see trends in real-time,” Rachel says. “If there’s a sudden increase in anxiety in a specific area, we can work with schools, hospitals, and mental health providers to offer targeted support.”

Users can also request their conversations be permanently deleted for added privacy. If not deleted, basic data like area codes help identify where resources are most needed. “For example, if we notice a spike in distress in a certain county, we can connect with local organizations to provide additional training or resources,” Rachel explains.

How is WYO Different from the 988 Suicide Hotline?

Both services provide critical mental health support, but the WYO Crisis Text Line is available for anyone—not just those in immediate crisis. “You can text if you’re having a tough day, feeling lonely, or just need to talk,” Rachel explains. While 988 is a vital resource for emergencies, WYO provides earlier intervention to prevent crises from escalating.

Making an Impact

Since launching on February 4th, the text line has already changed lives. At a recent University of Wyoming Cowboys basketball game, Rachel and her team introduced the service. The next day, they received feedback from someone who had reached out that night:

“Thank you for talking to me. I felt really alone before this conversation.”

“For me, that one message made the entire effort worth it,” Rachel says.

What’s Next?

The goal for the first year is simple: Spread the word. Rachel and her team are working with schools, hospitals, sports teams, and community groups to raise awareness. They’re also tackling accessibility challenges, including working with internet providers and power companies to ensure service is available to those with limited cell coverage or texting plans.

Beyond providing support, Rachel hopes this initiative will help break the stigma around mental health in Wyoming. “We want people to feel comfortable reaching out before they’re in crisis. If we normalize asking for help, we can build a stronger, healthier community.”

Her message is simple: You are not alone. Whether you’re dealing with stress, loneliness, or crisis, help is just a text away.

📱 Text WYO to 741741 anytime for free, confidential support.
🔗 Learn more at cathedralhome.org

Photo courtesy of Cathedral Home.