Today is 988 Day — a day when mental health providers spread the word about Louisiana 988, a number you can call or text 24 hours a day to receive free, confidential counseling for any problem, big or small. VIA Link social worker Sherrard Crespo says the 988 helpline saves lives.
“Having safe spaces like 988, where you get to talk and you get support about thoughts of suicide, about struggling with your mental health; that is what’s going to save people,” Crespo said.
Suicide is the third leading cause of death for Louisianians ages 10 to 34. VIA LINK, one of the nonprofits that answers 988 calls in Louisiana, is now receiving more than 5,000 calls a month. But Crespo says they are seeing a decline in the highest-risk crisis calls.
“Where we might need to get emergency intervention involved, that number is going down,” Crespo noted.
Crespo says there will be a rally on the steps of the State Capitol to raise awareness about the Louisiana 988 helpline.
“Please reach out; know that you matter and know that whatever it is that you’re going through really does matter, and there’s always someone there to listen,” Crespo said.
Crespo says 988 is a national number, but local crisis services answer the calls.
More information can be found at www.988lifeline.org.
Comments