September is Suicide Prevention Month, and with it comes an important reminder of a resource that can save lives: the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. By dialing or texting 988, anyone in the United States can be connected to trained counselors 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is free, confidential and available to anyone in crisis or anyone worried about a loved one.
On September 8, communities across the country recognize 988 Day of Action. The goal is simple but powerful, to spread awareness so that every household knows that help is as close as three numbers. In the same way we teach our kids to call 911 in an emergency, it’s time to make 988 just as familiar when it comes to mental health crises. This year’s theme, Compassionate Help. Anytime. Anywhere., reflects the message we at LSF are working to share – connection is critical.
Our team at LSF Health Systems has a special understanding of the importance of this day.
Through our Access to Care line at 877-229-9098, we connect people with mental health and substance use services across Florida every day. In Duval County, our LINK to LIFE program provides peer and community support, and Here Tomorrow offers a safe space for teens and young adults who may be struggling.
Recently, Jacksonville banded together with us as we hosted the first ever Zero Suicide Jax Summit. With the support of the Zero Suicide Project, we are expanding training and services statewide, ensuring that more families, veterans and underserved communities have access to care before a crisis becomes a tragedy.
The truth is, suicide prevention doesn’t always require grand gestures. It often begins with something as small as asking, “How are you doing?” or choosing to sit with someone in silence so they know they’re not alone. Pairing that human connection with around the clock resources like 988 ensures that help is always within reach.
To support these conversations, we’ve created a downloadable infographic, Prevention Starts Here. It can be printed and displayed as a reminder that connection saves lives, and it offers simple, accessible ways you can play a part in preventing suicide. This month, take a moment to download it, share it with others and keep it close as a resource in your own life and work. We believe that we all have a responsibility and a opportunity to prevent suicide.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 today. Help is always available.
