HopeLink Behavioral Health (formerly PRS), a nonprofit that answers the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for most of Virginia, is promoting its 10th annual #CallTextLive Campaign with activities throughout September’s Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. As a regional nonprofit with national reach, HopeLink helps individuals who live with behavioral health issues or that are in crisis.
“#CallTextLive helps drive attention to the serious issue of suicide and gives everyone a role in prevention. The campaign includes several ways for people to engage through social media, activities and events. A key message is there is hope and help through the 988 Lifeline,” said Joseph Getch, CEO, HopeLink Behavioral Health.
Suicide was the 11th leading cause of death in 2022, claiming the lives of more than 49,000 Americans. In addition, there were an estimated 1.6 million suicide attempts. Removing the stigma around discussing suicide and reaching out for help is crucial to saving lives and creating safer communities.
Throughout September, everyone can make a difference by participating in HopeLink’s #CallTextLive campaign. The campaign provides information and activities that contribute to a suicide-safer community by educating the public about improving mental wellness and talking openly about suicide and pain to help reduce the stigma and increase help seeking. It also educates family and friends about what services and supports are available to them.
#CallTextLive has information designed to support populations at a higher risk for suicide, including specific resources for the LGBTQIA+ community. Other elements include facts and data to increase understanding of suicide; resources about identifying when someone is in crisis; and invitations to HopeLink supported events. Social media is an important part of the campaign and is used to share facts and engage people in sharing stories and photos on HopeLink’s Facebook and Instagram pages using the #CallTextLive hashtag. By visiting HopeLink’s website or social pages, people can discover how to participate in the #CallTextLive Campaign.
A call to 988, text to 988, or sending a chat via 988lifeline.org/chat can save a life. If someone in crisis reaches out, HopeLink’s trained crisis workers evaluate their call, help de-escalate the crisis when possible, and work collaboratively with local resources to connect individuals to appropriate services. In addition to operating as a crisis call center, HopeLink provides an array of behavioral health services. To learn more about HopeLink and/or the campaign, visit https://HopeLinkBH.org/.
About HopeLink Behavioral Health
HopeLink is a leading nonprofit helping those living with diverse behavioral health issues and anyone who faces life crises achieve independence, self-sufficiency, and safety. HopeLink provides people they serve with skill training and support to help them recover and rebuild their lives through a range of services including Psychosocial Rehabilitation Day Program Services, Mental Health Outpatient Therapy, Mental Health Skills-Building, TIP, Individual Supported Employment, Peer Support Services, and Coordinated Specialty Care. HopeLink is a 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Center and Regional Crisis Call Center answering calls, texts, and chats from across Virginia and the nation. For 24/7 support from HopeLink, call or text 988. For 24/7 chat support, visit 988lifeline.org/chat. www.HopeLinkBH.org.