The Boys Town National Hotline is for kids, teens and parents who need help. Most importantly, the Hotline is here for YOU!
If you're in need of support, guidance, or simply someone to talk to, the Boys Town National Hotline is a great resource. The hotline is available to provide support for individuals of all ages, whether you're a child, teen, or parent, offering assistance when you need it most. Last year alone, the Hotline responded to over 85,00 calls and helped prevent over 450 suicides, providing crucial resources and assistance during times of crisis.
We have put together a list of the Top 10 presenting problems of last year.
Here are the Top 10 presenting problems encountered in 2025:
If you're having thoughts of suicide or feeling overwhelmed, it's important to talk about it, even though it can be difficult. Suicidal thoughts often come with other struggles, like mental health issues, bullying, or substance use, and it's crucial to get help before things escalate. Look out for warning signs such as talking about suicide, feeling hopeless, or giving away belongings. If you or someone you know is struggling, don't keep these thoughts a secret. Reach out to a trusted adult, counselor, or hotline—help is available, and you deserve to feel better.
2. Anxiety
It's perfectly normal to feel anxiety when you are going through stressful times. But when you start to feel like your anxiety is unbearable and overwhelming, it may be time to take a break and take care of yourself. Managing stress and the resulting anxiety means using good coping skills to get through the present moment.
At the start of a relationship, things like shared interests, humor and appearance might draw us to someone, but deeper connections come from understanding who they truly are. Healthy relationships require trust, respect and time to build. A strong relationship allows both people to see each other's strengths, weaknesses and vulnerabilities. To maintain a solid connection, focus on building trust, communicating openly about feelings, setting healthy boundaries and encouraging each other.
4. Loneliness
Finding your way through feelings of loneliness can feel overwhelming and confusing. It may seem that others do not have the same struggles you’re facing. When looking at their lives, they seem well-connected and happy, yet you might find yourself feeling alone and isolated. When emotions feel overwhelming, like being stuck in a maze, it’s important to pause and take control. Start by taking deep breaths and identifying what you're feeling and what’s triggering it. Replace negative thoughts with positive ones, like “I can do this” or “This won’t last forever.” Visualize yourself working through the situation and think of small steps you can take to move forward. If it still feels too hard, don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, a trusted adult or a professional.
Building a stronger, more respectful parent-child relationship requires effort and understanding from both sides. Kids can show maturity by being dependable — setting a curfew and consistently sticking to it helps build trust. If plans change or you're running late, checking in and keeping parents informed demonstrates responsibility. Parents, in turn, can recognize these actions as signs of growth and flexibility. Open communication, like chatting when you get home instead of heading straight to your room, creates connection.
6. Depression
Depression is a serious, common medical illness characterized by a persistent low mood, sadness, or loss of interest in activities. It negatively affects thoughts, feelings and behavior, causing significant impairment in daily life and functioning. It’s easy to keep your feelings buried deep inside and just hope they go away. But it’s important for you to talk to an adult you trust. Explain what’s going on and ask if they’ve noticed some of the same symptoms in you lately. Often just talking about your feelings and sorting out how to handle your stress helps a lot.
7. Friendships
Making friends starts with simple steps. Show you're approachable with friendly body language -- smile, make eye contact and stand tall. Start conversations by finding common ground, like shared interests or experiences, or bring up easy topics like the weather or an upcoming event. Get involved in activities, clubs, or volunteer work to meet new people and create opportunities to connect. Practice talking to others regularly, even with quick greetings, to build confidence
8. Self-Injury
Self-injury often stems from emotional pain, feeling numb, or a lack of control, but it's important to recognize it's a sign that healthier coping methods are needed. While it may seem like a way to deal with feelings, self-harm can cause physical harm, isolation and guilt. It's crucial to let go of the need to control everything and allow emotions to surface. Reaching out for support from friends, family, or professionals can help you find healthier ways to cope. You've already shown courage by acknowledging the problem -- now take the next step toward healing and remember that with time and effort, things can improve.
Rivalry and jealousy frequently emerge as primary contenders in sibling relationships. It can start as competition for parental attention, resources, or even recognition, these feelings can create a backdrop of tension and conflict from an early age. Calm your mind by pausing negative thoughts and asking if the situation is really worth getting upset over. Before speaking, take a moment to think and express your feelings calmly. If needed, walk away for a brief time to cool off, then return to the conversation when you're ready.
Third party suicide refers to situations where someone (a friend, family member or acquaintance) calls a suicide hotline or emergency service on behalf of another person who is at risk of suicide. These callers are crucial for intervention, providing information to help professionals assess risk and coordinate safety measures.
If you know someone who is making comments about harming themself, talk to a trusted adult like a parent, teacher, counselor, or family friend, or reach out to the Boys Town National Hotline at 800-448-3000. Your actions could save a life. Remember, help is always available.
Discover more about the Boys Town National Hotline at boystown.org/hotline. For questions or concerns, reach out via email at hotline@boystown.org. You do not have to face your problems alone; when you reach out you will talk with a REAL crisis counselor (not an Artificial Intelligence bot) who will listen and help.
Parents can find helpful advice and resources at Parenting.org, while teens can access support at yourlifeyourvoice.org. YLYV is a great online resource to get help in managing emotions.
