How Mirror Helps Keep You Safe: Understanding Our Crisis Detection Features

Journaling can be a lifeline. It gives young people a safe space to express emotions they may not feel ready to share out loud, where they can privately process and reflect. While journaling can be a powerful tool for self-expression, it can also help you explore deeper emotions like sadness, anxiety, or even hopelessness.

That’s why Mirror includes thoughtful, privacy-conscious crisis detection features. These are designed to quietly watch for signs of acute emotional distress and offer support when it matters most, without judgement.

Crisis detection refers to Mirror’s ability to recognize language in journal entries that may indicate serious emotional distress, such as suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or intense hopelessness.

Our technology does not read or analyze every word you write. Instead, it scans for specific high-risk patterns, to help identify if someone may need additional support.

Many teens experience difficult emotions, but not everyone feels comfortable speaking up about what they’re going through. According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 5 high school students seriously considered committing suicide in the past year, and more than 1 in 10 attempted it. These numbers highlight how important it is to have tools that can identify risk and quietly offer support. That’s where Mirror’s crisis detection features come in.

If our system detects a possible crisis, Mirror gently offers support through resources and prompts to connect with a trusted adult or mental health professional.

You are never forced to take action. You stay in control. Our goal is to meet people with care.

You might see:

• A supportive message checking in with you
• A list of immediate resources, such as the Crisis Text Line, mental health helplines, emergency services, and your support system contacts.

Mirror uses secure, on-device screening tools to identify high-risk language, but we do not store or share your journal entries. Your data remains confidential, encrypted, and under your control. You can have safety and privacy.

We designed Mirror’s crisis detection features with mental health professionals and real users. Every alert, every prompt, and every check-in are designed to be:

• Non-intrusive
• Non-judgmental
• Optional

We don’t diagnose or intervene without your consent. We designed Mirror’s crisis detection features to remind you that you’re not alone, and help is always nearby.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or crisis, please reach out to:

• Crisis Text Line: Text ‘HOME’ to 741741 to connect with a real person, available for free, 24/7
• Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call 988 for a free and confidential 24-hour crisis, counseling, and referral line
• 911: Call 911 if you are experiencing an emergency situation
• The Trevor Project: Call or text ‘START’ to 678678 for confidential support for LGBTQ+ young people facing distress, identity questions, or tough situations.
• National Eating Disorders Association Helpline: Call 800-931-2237 for help with eating concerns, body image issues, or disordered eating.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call or text ‘START’ to 88788 to get support if you feel controlled, unsafe, or harmed by a partner or family member.
• RAINN: Confidential support for anyone affected by sexual harm, assault, or abuse. Call 800-656-4673.

Want to know more about how Mirror supports mental health? Explore our features or download the app today to start your journaling journey. Take the first step towards better mental health with Mirror.

Available on the App Store and Google Play Store.

References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data Summary & Trends Report: 2011–2021. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/data/yrbs/index.htm