In July 2022, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline changed its name and number from 800-273-8255 to the easier-to-remember Suicide & Crisis Lifeline that can be reached by simply dialing 988. The Lifeline and other mental health organizations across the U.S. are working this month, National Suicide Prevention Month, to change the conversation to prevention and to actions we can all take to prevent suicide:
Ask: Research shows people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks about them in a caring way. Findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may reduce rather than increase suicidal ideation.
Be There: Individuals are likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking to someone who listens without judgment.
Keep Them Safe: A number of studies have indicated that when lethal means are made less available or less deadly, suicide rates by that method decline, and frequently suicide rates overall decline.
Help Them Stay Connected: Helping someone at risk create a network of resources and individuals for support and safety can help them take positive action and reduce feelings of hopelessness.
Follow Up: Brief, supportive, ongoing contact may be an important part of suicide prevention, especially for individuals after they have been discharged from hospitals or care services.
For more information about National Suicide Prevention Month, visit 988lifeline.org.
Remember too, that every health plan offered through Your Health Idaho has coverage for mental health and substance abuse services. If you have questions or need assistance, see your Summary of Benefits or contact your insurance carrier for details and information about providers you can see. If you ever need immediate help, call 911 or 988.