Manitoba youth are the first Canadians to test out the new text service offered by Kids Help Phone.

The free crisis text line will be offered to the rest of Canada within a year, but, for now, it's only available to Manitobans.

Youth just need to text TALK to 686868 on any text/SMS enabled cell phone to access help whenever they need it most. They will be connected to a volunteer Crisis Responder who will be able to help.

"I think any sort of accessible service is a good thing," said Brad Unger, Program Director for Recovery of Hope with Eden Health Care Services.

Research has shown that 71 per cent of young people prefer a non-verbal form of communication such as texting, which inspired Kids Help Phone and Crisis Text Line. It does not require a data plan, internet connection or app, and is especially relevant for young people living in remote areas, where internet service can be limited.

"It's at least a starting point, and if you're in a really low spot or something is really stressing you out, this is something I think has good potential," said Unger.

71 per cent of young people prefer non-verbal communication

Unger said he believes young people are more open to talking about mental health issues, and getting rid of the stigma around it. He said this free service is a step in the right direction when it comes to helping young people.

Kim Mardero is the Manitoba Manager for Kids Help phone.

"What we've been finding is that young people are looking for a non-verbal way to reach out for support, they're not as comfortable talking on the phone as maybe young people once were. So we really do have to reach kids where they're at, and texting is really where they want to be."

Mardero added the number one reason people reach out is for mental health support. "There's a lot of anxiety and stress," she said.

"They could be in the middle of their school day and have an incident where someone is bullying them... they could go off and text for support... without anyone knowing," said Mardero. She explains it's like having support right in your back pocket.

Kids Help Phone wants to make sure kids never feel alone and always have someone in their corer.

"One of the things Kids Help Phone has always done for young people is help them connect with supports in their own community. We may just part of the puzzle, to help them get through a difficult evening or difficult time," said Mardero. This information can also be found on their website.

In 2014, young people across Canada reached out to Kids Help Phone over 1.2 million times, and were provided with nearly 58,000 one-on-one counselling sessions. For more information about Kids Help Phone, visit the organization's website.

Mardero added Kids Help Phone is a charity, and always welcomes donations and participants in their events. One upcoming event is a 5K in Winnipeg at the UofW.

Visit kidshelpphone.ca/text for more information on this free support service.