September marks Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, with Tuesday designated as 988 Day to highlight crisis resources. The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay operates a call center where trained counselors assist individuals experiencing mental health crises. Counselors begin each call by assessing the caller’s emotional state and immediate safety needs. Based on this assessment, they help develop personalized safety plans and identify coping strategies. The center also connects callers with long-term resources like therapy and support groups. Additional care coordination offers follow-up contact for those needing ongoing assistance. The organization aims to reduce stigma and encourage people to seek help before reaching a breaking point. Anyone in crisis or concerned about someone else can call or text 988 anytime for support.
Key Points:
- Tuesday, Sept. 8 is designated as 988 Day to raise awareness about the suicide and crisis lifeline.
- Counselors at The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay begin calls by assessing callers’ feelings and immediate safety.
- The center offers suicide prevention care coordination with follow-up weekly calls for those needing additional assistance.
