Utah crisis lines see uptick in calls after Charlie Kirk shooting — Here's where to get help

SALT LAKE CITY — Fear, anxiety, grief and shock — these are some of the emotions many Utahns are processing in the wake of last week's shooting that killed Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University.

"It's very common to see a wide range of responses and reactions to events like this," said Rachel Lucynski, director of community crisis services at Huntsman Mental Health Institute.

Mental health professionals are reminding people that support is available. The Utah Crisis Line, reached by dialing 988, saw a 22% increase in calls after the incident. SafeUT, a free app available statewide, has also seen an increase in chats and continues to connect users with trained counselors around the clock.

"A lot of folks are reaching out and feeling scared, uncertain and asking questions that are frankly difficult to answer. 'Why did this happen?' 'Are we safe?' 'Will this lead to additional violent situations or things escalating?''" Lucynski said. "Even though our team doesn't know the answer to those questions, what we do know is there are great resources for people to connect with so they don't have to have those feelings alone."

"We've definitely made sure that we've increased our staffing levels. We are committed to our community and making sure that people are getting those calls for help answered and immediately responded to," she added.

988 offers multiple ways to reach out, including calls, texts and online chats. Trained counselors can help guide individuals through coping strategies, or connect them to mobile crisis outreach teams or receiving centers.

Lucynski recommended simple restorative steps, like disconnecting from your phone, taking a walk outside or talking to a loved one — small actions that can help people feel grounded.

"You don't have to go through those things alone, and you don't have to feel embarrassed about your reaction," Lucynski said. "You deserve and are worthy of receiving that individualized care and support, and our team is available and ready to help."

For anyone still processing the shooting, help is just three digits away. Calls, texts and chats through 988 are free, confidential and available 24/7. Walk-ins are also welcome at crisis receiving centers across the state, like the new Kem and Carolyn Gardner Mental Health Crisis Care Center in South Salt Lake.

UVU is also offering on-campus grief counseling sessions. Visit uvu.info for more information.

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