September is National Suicide Prevention Month, providing an opportunity to raise awareness about suicide prevention and remind people that help is available.
Residents are encouraged to save crisis resources and share them with family members, friends and others who may need support.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling or texting 988. The service is free and confidential. Spanish-language support is available by pressing 2 after calling 988 or by texting AYUDA to 988.
Veterans can access the Veterans Crisis Line by calling 988 and pressing 1, or by texting 838255. Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals can dial 711, then 988, or use their preferred relay service. ASL videophone service is also available.
The Crisis Text Line is available 24/7 by texting HOME or HOLA to 741741.
For LGBTQ+ young people under 25, The Trevor Project can be reached by calling 1-866-488-7386 or texting START to 678-678. Online chat is also available. Trans Lifeline, which provides peer support for transgender and questioning people, can be reached at 1-877-565-8860, although hours may vary.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention provides suicide prevention information, education and support at AFSP.org. People who have lost someone to suicide can find additional resources through The Kim Foundation at thekimfoundation.org.
Poison assistance is available 24 hours a day through the Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222. The center can provide immediate guidance from registered nurses and pharmacists for situations involving too much medication, the wrong medication or other potential poisonings.
If someone has collapsed, is having a seizure, is having trouble breathing or cannot be awakened, call 911 immediately.
National Suicide Prevention Month is a reminder that no one has to face a crisis alone. Help and support are available, and reaching out can be an important first step.