988: The New National Mental Health Crisis Number

Starting on Saturday July 16, 2022, there is a new National Mental Health Crisis Number: 988. You can call that number or text it.

FINALLY!

Ten  years ago, we gave you the Suicide resources here.

Some of these links are still good:
A directory of crisis centers can be found here.
There is a support section for suicide loss survivors at: Suicide Loss Survivors.

Sadly, the suicide rate in young Americans went up from ten years ago. In 2007, suicide was the third leading cause of death for young Americans. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is now the second leading cause of death for young Americans.

“The overall suicide rate nationwide has increased about 30% since 2000, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports.”

“From suicidal thoughts, addiction or substance abuse issues, calling or texting 988 will now get a person in touch with professionals who can help.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, suicide was the second leading cause of death among young Americans, just behind accidents. A person dies by suicide every 11 minutes in the U.S., according to data from the CDC.”

‘It’s ok to need help’: Dial 988 starting Saturday for national mental health crisis line
[KOMO news 7/12/22 by John Gonzalez]

According to the American Association of Suicidology,

“The Statistics:

• Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among youth attending colleges and universities in the U.S.
• 18% of college and university undergraduate students and 15% of graduate students reported having seriously considered attempting suicide across their lifetime.
• 6% and 4%, respectively, reported seriously considering suicide in the past 12 months.
• 30% of college students report having suicidal ideation. The actual percentage is likely much higher.”

Mental Health America gives state resources at this list.

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