“The theme of the show brought up issues for many viewers and we wanted them to know it’s important to talk to someone,” said Ginny Gohr, Boys Town National Hotline Director. “Since it can be difficult for teenagers to share with their parents, the Hotline provides them with an outlet for help and advice from an adult they can feel comfortable talking to. Victims need to know that they should not keep quiet about abuse.”

A PSA which aired directly after the show featured a cast member letting viewers know they don’t need to feel alone and urging them to call the Hotline if they need help. The day the first PSA aired, the Hotline received 1,298 calls, nearly twice what it receives on a typical Monday.

Most prevalent among these calls were from victims of abuse. Hotline staff received calls from children as young as 8 years old, as well as teens and adults who were still suffering from childhood traumas. Thanks to the Hotline and the show’s approach to the subject, callers of all ages received the help they needed to begin healing.

“We had some very positive results from those that called in,” said Gohr. “Through the Hotline, we were able to link these callers with Child Protective Services, counselors and other professionals who can help them resolve their individual issues.” 

Although the airing of the PSA during “The Secret Life of the American Teenager” prompted many calls about sexual abuse, the Hotline deals with a wide range of problems and concerns, including parenting, relationships and mental health issues.