The social services department of Amberwell Atchison is excited to distribute life-saving information regarding the new 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. To celebrate Social Work Month, information about the 988 Lifeline will be available in all waiting areas of Amberwell Atchison, Amberwell Eighth Street Clinic, Amberwell Horton Clinic, and Amberwell Troy Clinic.
Our social workers feel that the updated features of the new 988 Lifeline will help reach more people and save more lives. The 988 number is easier to remember and quicker to dial than the former 10-digit phone number of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This allows quicker access to the trained crisis counselors on hand 24/7 who can help people experiencing mental health-related distress, like thoughts of suicide, a mental health crisis, substance abuse crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress. In addition to calling, people can now text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for themselves or if they’re worried about a loved one who may need crisis support. The text and chat options are preferred by younger people especially, as the younger generation is more comfortable with those modes of communication. The 988 service is always free and confidential. No matter where you live in the United States, you can reach a trained crisis counselor who can help.
Social work is a diverse profession. Social workers work in many different places, including schools, hospitals, mental health practices, veterans’ centers, child welfare agencies, the criminal justice system, corporations and state, federal, and local governments. Each day, social workers help break down barriers that prevent people from living more fulfilling, enriched lives. They work on the individual level, helping people overcome personal crises like food insecurity, lack of affordable housing, or limited access to good health care. They also advocate on a systems level to ensure laws and policies are adopted so everyone can access services.
