Being a teenager today is more challenging than ever. Youth are navigating academic pressure, social expectations, identity exploration, mental health struggles, and the unrelenting influence of social media. It’s easy to feel misunderstood or isolated.
That’s where ConnecTeen, a program of Distress Centre Calgary, steps in. ConnecTeen offers a safe, confidential, and judgment-free space for youth to talk—anytime, about anything.
What Is ConnecTeen?
ConnecTeen is a 24-hour support service for youth in Calgary, providing both crisis intervention and daily peer support. It’s free and completely confidential.
Whether it’s a bad day, an ongoing mental health challenge, or a crisis situation, teens can reach out by phone, text, or online chat to connect with someone who understands.
How ConnecTeen Works
When youth reach out to ConnecTeen, they are connected with trained youth and teen volunteers in Calgary who offer peer support through:
- Call: 403-264-8336
- Text: 587-333-2724
- Live Chat: calgaryconnecteen.com
These volunteers are local youth who have completed extensive training in crisis response and active listening. They know what it’s like to face the pressures of teen life and offer compassionate, relatable support.
What Teens Can Talk About
There’s no topic too big or small. Common concerns include:
- Stress from school or exams
- Relationship or friendship struggles
- Family issues or conflict
- Questions about gender identity or sexual orientation
- Anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts
- Bullying or cyberbullying
- Feeling alone, misunderstood, or overwhelmed
During overnight hours, trained crisis professionals at Distress Centre Calgary provide support, ensuring 24/7 availability.
Who Can Use ConnecTeen?
ConnecTeen is designed for youth, but parents, guardians, teachers, and friends can also reach out to:
- Learn how to support a young person
- Talk through concerns about someone else
- Get resources and guidance
Teens can even contact ConnecTeen on behalf of a friend they’re worried about.
Why Peer Support Matters
ConnecTeen helps Calgary youth feel heard, seen, and supported. Having someone to talk to—especially someone close in age—can be incredibly healing. Whether it’s easing stress, building coping strategies, or connecting to further resources, support changes lives.
As Sara, a ConnecTeen responder, puts it:
“We’re your age. We’re going through the same things that you are. It’s really easy to relate to your experiences and give you the support you need.”
This peer-to-peer connection is what makes ConnecTeen so unique and impactful. It ensures teens don’t just get help, they feel truly understood.
Reach Out Today
If you’re a teen in Calgary who needs someone to talk to—or if you’re looking to support the youth in your life—ConnecTeen is here for you. There’s always someone ready to listen.
Call: 403-264-8336
Text: 587-333-2724
Chat: calgaryconnecteen.com
Want to learn more about ConnecTeen? Check out our YouTube Shorts video to learn more!
Want to Make a Difference? Volunteer with ConnecTeen
Youth volunteers are the heart of ConnecTeen. By becoming a volunteer, teens not only help others but gain skills in communication, empathy, teamwork, and crisis intervention—skills that are valuable for life, school, and future careers.
Volunteering is a powerful way to give back to your community and help other teens feel less alone.
Stay Connected
Want to stay informed about mental health resources, youth support services, and ways to get involved in your community?
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