SouthCoast Communities Observing 988 Day for Suicide Awareness

This weekend, SouthCoast communities are gathering together to help bring awareness to the crises of suicide and mental health.

September 8 marks the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's first annual 988 Day.

The day will set the stage for ongoing engagement and awareness of 988 nationwide. 988 is the phone number a person in crisis can dial when having suicidal thoughts.

Samaritans SouthCoast and surrounding communities will come together on Sunday in a day of action focused on suicide prevention.

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Samaritans SouthCoast operates Bristol and Norfolk Counties' 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, serving over 37,000 callers annually as one of 200 988 call centers nationwide.

988 Day is a vital part of the broader September initiatives focused on suicide prevention and mental health awareness, such as National Suicide Prevention Month and Recovery Month.

The goal is to raise awareness of 988 in creative and meaningful ways within local communities.

This year's theme, "No Judgment. Just Help", is being shared nationwide to positively promote 988 and share our 988 Day activities on social media using the hashtag #988Day.

"This simple yet powerful message reminds us that compassion and understanding can make a significant difference for someone struggling. Whether it's reaching out to a friend, sharing resources, or saving the 988 National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number in our phones, every action matters," Darcy Lee, Executive Director of Samaritans SouthCoast, said.

As communities come together on Sunday, it will impact others with reassurance and letting them know that they are not alone. Samaritans SouthCoast will also continue engaging in events throughout the SouthCoast and across Bristol and Norfolk Counties as well.

To join in sharing the message, you can use the hashtag to promote the activities.

If anyone is struggling, counselors are accessible 24/7 for anyone to connect with through a simple chat, text or by calling 988 at any time.

"Remember that Samaritans SouthCoast is there to listen 24/7 at 988. Let's continue to be the connection that saves lives," Lee said.