Page 34 - UFRA Straight Tip Spring 2021 - Volume 22 Issue 2

SAFE
SAFE
UT
Frontline
What is SafeUT Frontline?
SafeUT Frontline App
Frequently Asked Questions
SafeUT Frontline is an app that provides two-way communication with a licensed mental health professional. Through the app, you can chat with or call a SafeUT counselor. SafeUT Frontline has been developed for use by Utah frontline workers including Law Enforcement, Fire/EMS, Healthcare personnel and their families.
Why an app?
Crisis can affect anyone at any time. At some point in their lives, most people will need emotional support or referral assistance. If you can connect with someone who cares about you during a crisis, the risk of harming yourself or others decreases greatly. People often feel more comfortable talking to someone they don't know during a stressful time. Talking to someone who isn’t directly involved allows people to discuss feelings and concerns in a way that might be different from talking with friends and family members. Sometimes it can feel more comfortable to talk about these things through text.
How do I download the app?
The SafeUT Frontline app is available at no cost for both Apple and Android devices.
Simply search “SafeUT Frontline” in your smartphone’s app store and download the app. You will be required to accept terms and permissions—something all apps ask you to do. You will also create a passcode once the app is downloaded.
Does this cost money?
SafeUT Frontline is available to our healthcare providers, fire/EMS, and law enforcement personnel across the state at no cost. It is funded through the Utah state legislature with services provided by University of Utah Health’s Community Crisis Intervention & Support Services.
How does the chat feature work?
To chat/text with us through the SafeUT Frontline app, click "Chat" from the main screen of the app. After you click “Chat” you can chat directly with the crisis counselor on the next screen.
The crisis counselor will receive the message and respond quickly. By sending real-time chat messages to the person in crisis, the counselor gives effective, confidential counseling and referrals to whatever situation you or your loved one may be going through.
What can I expect?
Our goal is to help you move from a place of crisis or distress to a calmer, safer place. We then help you create a plan to stay safe and connect you with resources that can help you solve the problems you’re facing.
You can expect:
 supportive listening
 a safe and nonjudgmental space to talk about your crisis
 joint problem-solving with a crisis counselor
 information about community resources that might offer more support
Who responds to chat messages submitted in the app?
Masters level licensed therapists at the Huntsman Mental Health Institute (HMHI), formerly University Neuropsychiatric Institute (UNI), respond to all chat messages received in the app. Our therapists specialize in:
 supportive listening
 joint problem-solving
 crisis intervention
 suicide prevention
Our therapists work on a team with other crisis workers in HMHI’s Community Crisis Intervention & Support Services department. Our licensed staff are available 24/7/365.
SafeUT Frontline
Frequently Asked Questions
32 | UFRA Straight Tip