Beginning 01/11/2021, the statewide text/chat service will be undergoing maintenance and will not be available at this time. To get connected to an advocate, call the Maine Sexual Assault Helpline at 1-800-871-7741. Support is available 24/7.

You can call the sexual assault helpline at 1-800-871-7741 anytime of day or night, or text the helpline Monday-Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. ​​

Answers to Questions You Might Have

   How can our services help?
   Free, confidential support from a trained sexual assault advocate.
   A chance to talk about what happened, how you’re feeling, and what you may need now.
   Information & resources that can help you with next steps in healing and recovery.
   Referrals for longer-term support where you live (mental health help, legal, police or healthcare).
How does the text/chat work? What can I expect?
This works like other instant messaging services you may have seen. It has more safety & security features. You will enter a live private chat session with a trained advocate and begin sending messages to each other. The chat is completely anonymous. You can share what you would like. During your chat, the advocate will listen, support you, and help you find resources. 

​When you want to end the chat, click “End Chat.” The chat window will disappear, and your conversation will be deleted. No record of your conversation will be kept. You can also choose to click the “Quick Escape” button anytime during a chat. The button will end the chat and send you to the Google homepage.

Beginning 01/11/2021, the statewide text/chat service will be undergoing maintenance and will not be available at this time. To get connected to an advocate, call the Maine Sexual Assault Helpline at 1-800-871-7741. Support is available 24/7.
Will you have to report if I tell you what happened?
We are what is called mandated reporters. That means we have to follow Maine state reporting laws. If we think you are under 18 and you tell us any information that makes us think you are being abused or neglected, we may have to share this with other adults to help keep you safe. But we will never ask you for identifying information. You can share what you feel comfortable sharing.
When can I text or chat with an advocate?
Advocates will be on the text/chat helpline during weekdays (Monday through Friday) from 8am to 5pm. Any changes to these hours will be posted on this page.

How much do text/chat services cost?
It costs as much as other texts you send and get. Other data costs may apply when you use chat services from your cell phone or tablet. We do not charge for helping you.

Will text/chat services appear on my phone bill?
It depends on your phone company. Someone reading your phone bill may be able to see that you have texted with us. Please consider this when thinking about your privacy and safety.