DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF News ) – Starting Saturday, anyone who dials 988 will now be able to speak with someone on the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
It’s replacing the current 1-800-273-8255 number, although this number will still be active.
This North Texan who has struggled with mental health issues himself said because the new number easier to remember, it will have a major impact on saving the lives of those suffering in silence.
“Just having a line that is available for a person to talk to when they need to 24/7 will cut down on a lot of issues. It will make them feel more safe and secure and be able to somehow get help,” he said.
Bonnie Cook with Mental Health America of Greater Dallas said it’s a positive development for Texas as its past grade marks for dealing with mental health issues is dismal.
“Texas ranks last in access to mental health coverage and we rank last in access to health insurance to pay for mental health coverage,” she said.
Texas currently has 127 full-time crisis counselors at centers in Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, Houston and El Paso. Cook said that number is low and predicts there will be challenges a head.
“We’re going to stretch the system that we have in place and those that work so hard to staff these lines are going to have loads and loads more work to do and loads and loads more calls,” she said.
Advocates like Cook are urging lawmakers and cities leaders to make sure there’s enough funding to staff the new line.
“Right now, the funds that we receive are federal dollars. So with this next legislative session, the legislators are going to need to set up funding so that we can continue to use that 988 line,” she said.
Cities nationwide have experienced staffing shortages at 911 call centers and advocates said its even worse for the mental health sector.
Cook said those who are doing the job are overworked and stressed out and are going to need a lot of support.
On the caller side, Cook said lawmakers will need to make sure there are wraparound services for those who are struggling.
“We need to work it out so people can see a therapist, a counselor and people can get help quickly as opposed to having to wait a month to see a doctor,” she said.
This North Texans said it gives him hope to know that there are angels out there who want people like him and so many others to get better. He encourages anyone who is struggling to dial 988.
“If you want to have a better life, like inside, I would take a chance on doing it…not for anybody else but just for yourself. You never know when it can save your life and many others,” he said.
If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) or 988. Counselors are available 24/7.
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