Over the last year, a group called “mental health navigators” has helped some of the children most in need in our schools, reaching them before they’re in crisis. One of the navigators, Jeannine Sparkes, met the Fahey family three months ago. Now, she may as well be part of the family. “I call her almost […]
Change the culture around mental health
May was Mental Health Awareness Month. By urging my public officials to prioritize suicide prevention, mental health and crisis care, I am hoping to influence collective change to support #MentalHealth4All.
Right now, individuals in crisis are able to call (800) 273-8255 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress and those who care for them. Soon, it will be much easier to remember how to reach the Lifeline as the number will be changing to 988 nationwide by July 2022.
Knowing this, it is critically important that states pass legislation now to reliably fund 988 and their stateâs crisis response system, just as we fund 911 and emergency services â through small fees on our phone bills. Reliable funding will help to ensure all 988 callers can reach a counselor in their own state who is familiar with and can connect them with local resources. Cul
The Senate should support the Safe Interactions Act and the HELP Act to make our cities and towns safer for both law enforcement personnel and people with disabilities.