Today is the first observance of 9-8-8 day. It is a national initiative to increase awareness and promote using 988 for suicide prevention or as a crisis lifeline. It’s fitting the day falls in September because this month is Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month.
988 launched two years ago. Calling or texting 9-8-8 will provide a line to trained, non-judgmental counselors. It is free, confidential, and available 24/7 in both English and Spanish. The Kaiser Family Foundation, non-profit that provides information on mental health, reports that since its’ launch, 9-8-8 has received 10.8 million calls, texts, and chats. The demand continues to grow.
Break the stigma of mental health by telling others about 9-8-8. Talk openly with others. Be aware of signs of suicide such as increased drug or alcohol use, giving away personal possessions, extreme mood swings, or withdrawing from friends.
On the inaugural 988 Day, consider posting #988Day with a dance on your social media. Read more about 9-8-8 on the website.
Learn more about mental health conditions or take a Question, Persuade and Refer (QPR) class.
Consider getting involved in the community through the National Alliance on Mental Illness or by joining the Behavioral Health Task Force through Healthy Adams County.
Amy Thomas, Contributing Editor, is responsible for community outreach, including our social media presence. She, her husband, and her two children reside in Adams County. Amy also works in occupational therapy and volunteers with local organizations.