Mississippi Department of Mental Health Recognizes 988 Day of Awareness

The Mississippi Department of Mental Health (DMH) is joining partners across the nation in recognizing 988 Day of Awareness on September 8. This day highlights the importance of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a three-digit number that connects people to immediate support during mental health, substance use or suicide crisis.

This year’s theme, “Compassionate Help. Anytime. Anywhere.”, reflects the heart of what 988 is all about — empathy, accessibility and reliability. Across the nation, more than 11,000 trained counselors are available to answer calls, texts and chats, working every day to reduce barriers around seeking mental health support.

Since its launch in 2022, 988 has made it easier for people in crisis to access help quickly. In Mississippi, the call centers have maintained a response rate of more than 95%, with majority of calls answered by in-state counselors. Mississippi centers now handle over 1,200 calls each month through the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

The need for mental health support remains urgent. Each year, Mississippi loses approximately 421 people to suicide, while an estimated 107,000 adults in the state experience suicidal thoughts. In total, about 431,000 Mississippi adults live with a mental health condition, including 120,000 with a serious mental illness.

“The 988 Lifeline is saving lives in Mississippi,” said Wendy Bailey, Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Mental Health. “By calling or texting 988, anyone can connect with someone who understands what they are going through and can provide the support and resources they need.”

988 Day of Awareness also falls within Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to reducing stigma, increasing understanding and promoting available resources to prevent suicide. DMH encourages Mississippians to use this opportunity not only to learn about 988, but also to share its availability with others in their communities.

The 988 Lifeline is available to anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis and any other kind of emotional distress. Family members and friends can also call 988 if they are concerned about a loved one and need guidance or resources.

On 988 Day of Awareness and throughout the year, DMH encourages all Mississippians to save 988 in their phones, share the number with others and check in on family, friends and neighbors. Together, we can build a stronger safety net of support for those in need.

For more information about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and how it can help you or a loved one, visit www.988lifeline.org or call/text 988 anytime.

This year on 988 Day, we wore purple to show our support for recovery and suicide prevention, and to remind our communities that help is always just three digits away. Thank you to our Central Office team who joined us in raising awareness. Together, we can spread hope, break stigma and remind others they are never alone.