Cumberland County Public Health Raises Awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

 


FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Cumberland County proudly joined communities across the country in a day of action focused on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) first annual 988 Day on Sept. 8, 2024.

988 Day is a pivotal initiative aimed at raising awareness about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline within local communities. This observance was part of broader September initiatives focused on suicide prevention and mental health awareness, including National Suicide Prevention Month and Recovery Month.

Cumberland County reminds citizens anyone can text or chat any time of day by texting or dialing 988. The lifeline connects callers with skilled, caring and nonjudgmental counselors. This year marks the inaugural 988 Day, establishing an annual tradition on Sept. 8 and fostering ongoing engagement and awareness of 988 across the United States.

“As we marked the first 988 Day, we hope to help our community understand that help is always available,” said Dr. Jennifer Green, Director of Public Health. “We encourage everyone to reach out, whether for themselves or someone they care about.”

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers judgment-free support for mental health, substance use and more. Simply text or call 988.

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Learn more about the Cumberland County Department of Public Health by visiting www.cumberlandcountync.gov/departments/public-health or on social media by searching the username CumberlandCountyPublicHealth.