LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Kentuckians are calling, chatting, and texting the nation’s suicide and crisis lifeline 988.
This number became available across the United States in 2022. And since then, over 124,000 Kentuckians have used it.
It's a short number with a broad mission.
Over 124,00 Kentuckians have used the nation's suicide and crisis lifeline. (WDRB photo)
"It's really about giving people a platform to tell their stories," said Jarod Woods, the marketing and communications director of Seven County Services.
In 2022, a behavioral health service, Seven County Services, became the local provider for the 988 hotline throughout Louisville.
"Being that, we have a responsibility to spread the awareness to destigmatize individuals calling this number and truly act as a lifeline to our community," Woods said.
The numbers show Kentuckians rely on immediate mental health assistance.
Since the launch of the free, confidential, 24/7 line, counselors have received more than 84,000 calls, 25,000 text messages, and 15,000 online chats from Kentuckians.
"Whether that's mental health, whether it's substance use, whether it's thoughts of suicide, we are available in that moment of need," Woods said.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said it's OK to not be OK.
"The amount of mental health challenges that are out in our country right now, at least, feels like the most we have ever faced," Beshear said.
The commonwealth has seen a 28% increase in calls routed to in-state centers since 988 was launched.
"Meaning that more Kentuckians are being helped by Kentuckians," Beshear said.
Kentucky counselors have answered the phone about every 23 seconds. That's according to Beshear.
"I want people to know there is a hotline, where people are standing by, they care about you, they want to help you, and they have special and specific training to be able to do it," Beshear said.
When someone calls 988, a trained crisis counselor will answer the phone, listen to the caller, understand how their problem is affecting them, provide support and share resources if needed.
"That means that regardless of age, regardless of background, regardless of the language that individual speaks, they can access access 988," Woods said.
The commonwealth has a network of 13 in-state call centers and is working to add a 14th call center before the end of the year.
"I've seen this community wrap its arms and meet the community where they are with a lifeline that people can access over the phone through chat or text. It's a special moment for the state of Kentucky as we move forward," Woods said.
For more information, about Seven Counties Services click here.
Related Stories:
- Louisville's 911 Crisis Call Diversion Program now available 24 hours a day
- Gov. Beshear touts success of Kentucky's new 988 mental health crisis line
- Louisville mental health experts call new national suicide help line a game-changer
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