On September 10, 2024, we celebrate the first annual 988 Day, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of mental health support. This new national observance shines a spotlight on the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a vital resource launched to provide immediate, accessible help for those in emotional distress.
The 988 Lifeline, which officially went live in July 2022, offers a direct and easy-to-remember number for people in crisis to call, text, or chat with trained counselors. It’s a crucial part of a broader initiative to reframe mental health care, making it as accessible and normalized as calling 911 for physical emergencies.
CommUnity & 988
CommUnity is one of two Iowa-based nonprofits that answer the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. While 988 shortened to a three digit number from the ten digit number just two years ago, CommUnity has been answering the national lifeline for over ten years! All of our counselors go through 60+ hours of training, including LivingWorks Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST). This is a free training that we also provide to anyone in the community interested in suicide intervention.
We are also so proud to be one of a handful of organizations in the nation to answer the 988 LGBTQIA+ line. This line provides support to LGBTQIA+ folx seeking more individualized care. To access the 988 LGBTQIA+ line, just call or text 988 +3 to be connected to free, confidential support.
Why 988 Day Matters
- Awareness and Education: 988 Day serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health support and the availability of resources. It helps demystify the process of seeking help and reduces the stigma associated with mental health crises.
- Celebrating Progress: This day allows us to acknowledge the progress made in mental health care, particularly in improving crisis intervention. The 988 Lifeline has already been a game-changer for many, providing timely support and connecting individuals with necessary resources.
- Promoting Conversation: By dedicating a day to 988, we encourage ongoing conversations about mental health, fostering a culture where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength rather than weakness.
How to Get Involved
- Spread the Word: Share information about 988 and its services through social media, community events, or simply by talking to friends and family.
- Support Mental Health Initiatives: Engage with local organizations that focus on mental health and crisis intervention. They often need volunteers, donations, and advocates.
- Take Care of Your Mental Health: Use this day as an opportunity to reflect on your own mental well-being and seek support if needed. Remember, accessing mental health resources is a proactive and healthy choice.
As we celebrate the first 988 Day, let’s embrace the opportunity to support mental health and continue working towards a world where everyone feels empowered to seek help and support each other. Here’s to a future where mental health resources are as accessible as dialing three simple numbers—988.
