Pennsylvania will help a local nonprofit as the nation prepares to transition to a 9-8-8 crisis intervention line.
The 9-8-8 call number will eventually replace 1-800-273-TALK (8255) as the direct line for the Lifeline.
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The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services said Thursday that the Family Service Association of Bucks County in Middletown Township will receive funding to add capacity to support its efforts. The funds can be used to increase call volume, coordinate local behavioral health, suicide prevention and crisis support infrastructure, and build awareness of the launch of 9-8-8 start nationally in July 2022.
“When a person is experiencing a crisis or suicidal ideation, quick response is critical to providing support. Transitioning the Lifeline to 9-8-8 will ease access for people in crisis and anyone looking to help and will save valuable time and lives,” said Secretary Teresa Miller. “This funding enables DHS and our partners to prepare for implementation and build capacity to support this eased access and bring together suicide prevention and crisis support networks so callers know that no matter what they are going through, they do not have to experience and overcome it alone.”
The support program is through Vibrant Emotional Health, a nonprofit organization that helps individuals and families achieve emotional wellbeing. The organization also administrators of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and supports the Lifeline and other crisis resources.
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The Family Service Association of Bucks County is seeking volunteers for their crisis hot lines. Training starts soon.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or suicidal ideation or have in past, know that help is always available:
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
- The Spanish-language National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-888-628-9454
- For the Mental Health Crisis Text Line: Text PA to 74174
- Persevere PA Support and Referral Helpline: 1-855-284-2494. For TTY, dial 724-631-5600.
- TrevorLifeline for LGBTQ individuals: 866-488-7386
- Trans Helpline: 1-877-565-8860
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