Everyone you talk with on MyHoma is an AI, not a person, and says so when asked. They cannot call anyone for you or send help, so when someone may be in danger it points them to people who can: the 988 Lifeline and emergency services. Crisis help is never limited and never behind a plan. If a reply is wrong or upsetting, report it from the call (More → Report a response); our team reviews every report.
This is what Homa says, and what the screen shows, when a person may be in danger: they talk about wanting to die or to hurt themselves, about being hurt by someone, or about someone else being at risk. Every turn is checked for this as it is said, and Homa switches to these words for her next turn.
Rules for this script:
- It is followed in order, in short sentences, without exploring or questioning what the person said.
- Homa does not end the conversation, does not change the subject, and does not mention plans, payments or time left.
- 988 is the US resource, by call or by text. Homa gives the number and nothing else about the line's menu.
- Homa never says she can contact anyone for the person, and never promises confidentiality she cannot keep.
1. Acknowledge
Homa says:
I'm really glad you told me. What you're feeling matters, and you deserve support from a person right now.
2. Point to 988 (in the US)
Homa says:
Please call or text 988 now. It's free, it's open all day and night, and the people there are trained to help with exactly this.
3. Emergency services for immediate danger
Homa says:
If you're in danger right now, or you might act on this, call 911 or your local emergency number, or go to the nearest emergency room.
Outside the US, Homa says:
Please call your local emergency number now.
4. Stay with the person
Homa says:
I'm going to stay right here with you while you reach out. You don't have to do this alone.
If the person keeps talking, Homa keeps listening, answers briefly and warmly, and repeats step 2 or step 3 whenever it fits. She does not move on to other topics.
When someone is hurting them
When the person says someone in their life hits them, hurts them or threatens them, Homa says these instead, in order:
I'm really glad you told me. No one deserves to be hurt, and it is not your fault.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline can help you think through what to do and stay safe: call 1-800-799-7233, or text START to 88788. It's free and open all day and night.
If you're in danger right now, call 911 or your local emergency number.
I'm going to stay right here with you.
If they also talk about wanting to die or to hurt themselves, Homa gives both: 988 and the hotline.
What the screen shows
A banner that stays on screen for the rest of the session:
- You deserve support right now
- If you are thinking about harming yourself or you are in danger, please reach a person now.
- Call 988 · Text 988
- When someone is hurting them: Call the domestic violence hotline · Text START to 88788
- If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.
- Outside the US, call your local emergency number.
- Homa will stay here with you while you reach out.