Image/Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration/U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
By Daria Parker, Assistant Editor
Americans can reach mental health resources by dialing or texting the 988 code, to reach the Suicide Prevention Hotline.
Starting July 16, The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be contacted by dialing 988. Formally known as the National Prevention Lifeline, switched to the three-digit code for those finding themselves in emotional distress. This lifeline also offers aid for those struggling with substance abuse and suicidal thinking by connecting them with trained crisis counselors. There are 129 suicides a day in the U.S. according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The 3-digit number was enacted because “To prevent future suicides, it is critical to transition the cumbersome, existing 10-digit National Suicide Hotline to a universal, easy-to-remember, 3-digit phone number and connect people in crisis with life-saving resources,” according to the text of the law.
“It is a really good marketing for awareness of mental health, in that way to normalize the idea of seeking help when in need,” said Matthew Miles, a clinical counselor and mental health social worker at UNCP.
The switch is due to the passage of the National Suicide Designation Act of October 2020 after passing the Senate with bilateral support.
The legislation also administered the switch to 988 to create a specialized plan for marginalized groups to feel comfortable accessing these resources, this plan focusing mainly on the LGBTQIA+ community. With mental illness progressing more in America, this allows for users to get care in an accessible way because of the shortened number. The Gallup World poll shows an all-time high for the World’s Negative Experiences, like worry, stress, and sadness resulting in the decline of one’s mental health.
Seeking mental health care can be daunting, especially in young people in the post pandemic climate we are living in. If one is seeking help, there are multiple resources that can provide aid on the campus of UNCP.
CAPS provides clinical mental health services by offering aid in students mental wellness along with the academic accomplishments by providing access to set up a fit campus environment for all students. This is achieved by supplying numerous services to students that want to receive accessible mental care.
“I think everybody for various reasons is having a hard time right now, and the clinical word for what most of us is experiencing is normal,” said Charlamagne Suggs, an interim director and clinical counselor supervisor.
CAPS offers various events that focus on teaching different mechanisms to help guide in mental distress, along with counseling sessions for further assistance that students can attend throughout the semester. Mindfulness Mondays is a guided meditation that helps students connect with their mind and body. This is held every Monday at 7 p.m. in Pine Residence Hall. Another service that is a 30-minute Triage session that focuses on what specific services would best aid students and their needs is available Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Students can find more resources through BraveWeb or by going to the Brave Health Center.