By ROGER BARNHART
Central Kansas Mental Health Center
Whether calling or texting, the 988 Lifeline provides access to connect with a trained professional in Kansas.
On Saturday, Kansas joins the rest of the United States in beginning to use the 988 dialing code. 988 will be the new three-digit number to call or text that connects people to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, where compassionate, accessible care and support are available for anyone experiencing mental health–related distress.
“Everyone knows to call 911 in times of emergency,” said Glenna Phillips, executive director of Central Kansas Mental Health Center (CKMHC). “Now, we will have specialized access connecting with our resources for those facing a mental health crisis.”
988 vs. 911
When calling 911, paramedics, firefighters, and police are dispatched to emergencies as needed. Calling 988 will mean being connected to specialized care for Crisis Services. Depending on the nature and severity of the crisis, reaching out to 988 and asking for help will offer connections to counseling, medications or even a hospital bed.
When to call 988
According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), those experiencing any mental-health-related crisis can dial 988. Whether you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance abuse issues, or any type of emotional distress, this number will connect you with a trained crisis counselor 24/7.
According to National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the following are signs of a mental health crisis:
• Feeling unable to provide self-care for hygiene, changing clothes or eating appropriately
• Isolating yourself from others
• Sudden mood swings – going from happy to calm or angry after bouts of depression
• Restlessness or pacing
• Feeling out of touch with reality
• Violent or abusive behavior toward oneself or others
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
The 988 number is a resource not only for individuals suffering from a mental health crisis, but also for those concerned with someone that may be suffering a crisis.
According to SAMHSA both 988 and 911 systems will be coordinated, so that callers can be referred to care that is appropriate for their situation, noting that fewer than 2 percent of Lifeline calls require help from 911 emergency services.
“CKMHC is always looking to expand the specialized crisis care we provide within our communities,” said Phillips. “We are excited that 988 will enable us even greater integration and access for those suffering from mental health crisis and their loved ones that need support.”
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The mission of CKMHC is to make life better in our communities by providing excellent mental health services, education, and integrated care, which exceeds patients’ expectations. CKMHC is a nonprofit provider and delivers services based on medical necessity, regardless of age, race, color, national origin, disability or ability to pay. In addition to the main campus in Salina, satellite offices are located in Abilene, Ellsworth, Lincoln, and Minneapolis. For more information about available services, call 785-823-6322.