PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: NEW national mental health hotline

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​This is a PSA announcing the new 988 Hotline that was unveiled on July 15, 2022. Verywell Health published an article sharing the features of this resource. On an almost daily basis we are hearing and reading about people feeling hopeless and helpless. Admittedly, this can be deemed as a very sensitive topic. I'm broaching it because FIATM is known to address needs. This is no exception. Here is the article link for your reference: 
https://www.verywellhealth.com/988-suicide-prevention-hotline-5547790

• Starting July 16, you can call or text 988 for help if you’re experiencing a mental health crisis.
• The hotline can connect callers to trained counselors who can help them cope with emotional distress and suicidal thoughts, or connect them to additional resources.
• The three-digit number will hopefully be easier for people to remember than the 1-800 hotline.

This is much needed and hopefully because there are less numbers to remember it will prove helpful and lifesaving to those that need someone to discuss challenges with. 
I personally hope that at some point the stigma and shame attached to emotional and mental challenges admittance will decrease. As a society there should be unwavering support for someone that goes beyond recognizing the need for help. The act of courage to seek it out and follow through is admirable. Again, in my opinion. 
Consider that when there is a fire or physical health emergency we reflexively know to dial 911. Unfortunately, until now we have not had an easy to remember resource in the event of a mental emergency. So, if you or someone you know is in need of assistance share the 988 hotline with them.

Until next week,

Jacqui Dobens
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