September is Suicide Prevention Month, and the Lincoln County Health Department, with support from the Healthy Minds for Lincoln County Coalition, is working to increase the public’s knowledge of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Efforts include developing a number of resources to spread the word about 988 including wallet cards, magnets, and posters that have been customized for Lincoln County. These resources have been mailed to worksites, first responders, veterans groups, clinics, and churches in the county. Also with generous support from Aspirus Health, two billboards promoting 988 are located in Merrill and Tomahawk this month.
Special attention has been given to men in Lincoln County who are disproportionately impacted by suicide. From 2017-2023, 83% of the 40 suicide deaths in the county were men. The age groups most impacted were men ages 31-40 and 51-70. (Source: WI Department of Health Services, Vital Records)
“Although the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline launched several years ago, there are still community members who don’t know it’s available,” said Kristin Bath, Public Health Educator for Lincoln County Health Department. “Through these promotional efforts, we hope we can increase awareness and connect people to crisis support when it’s needed.”
The 988 Lifeline offers 24/7, free and confidential mental health and crisis support from trained counselors. It is available via call, text, or chat. Learn more at 988lifeline.org. Since July 2022, 643 calls have come in to 988 from Lincoln County. (Source: WI Department of Health Services, 988 Data Dashboard)
If you would like to download or order 988 materials, go to: bit.ly/HealthyMindsLincolnCounty or contact Kristin Bath at 715.539.1373, [email protected].
Lincoln County Health Department is always striving for a safer and healthier Lincoln County.