DHSS Observes National Suicide Prevention Month

DOVER - The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) and a coalition of partners will elevate awareness about Delaware 988 - the state's suicide and crisis lifeline - and foster a supportive community environment for mental health during September, National Suicide Prevention Month.

DHSS has organized a Week of Action as part of National Suicide Awareness Month, during which organizations across Delaware will hold events aimed at emphasizing the importance of seeking emotional distress support for themselves or someone they care about. Events include community events, such as information sessions, walks/runs, webinars, and high-traffic canvassing. These activities will focus on educating residents about recognizing signs of emotional distress and utilizing 988. The 988 Week of Action will initiate with the newly established '988 Day,' Sunday, Sept. 8, and will conclude on Sept. 14, 2024.

Leaders will ask for a statewide moment of silence at 8 a.m. on Sept. 8, symbolizing 9-8-8, to recognize Delawareans who have been affected by suicide, whether in experiencing loss or survival.

"This moment of silence is a powerful reminder of the lives lost and the strength of those who have survived," said DHSS Secretary Josette Manning. "We invite all Delawareans to participate, reflect, and commit to supporting one another."

Then at 8 p.m. Delawareans can participate in a moment of action, to speak up or reach out to someone you care about. Taking part in 988 Day and 988 Week of Action in Delaware encourages individuals to engage in discussions with friends and loved ones about mental health, learn about the signs of emotional distress, and familiarize themselves with the resources available through 988 and throughout Delaware.

"Our call to action in Delaware this September is simple: 'SPEAK UP.' Whether it's reaching out to a friend or learning more about available resources, every action counts in making a difference," said Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Director Joanna Champney. "We want to empower individuals to take proactive steps toward mental health support. There's no judgment - just help."

Supporting 988 Day and 988 Week of Action, Delawareans will further be made aware of 988 services and resources through an advertising campaign launching during the Week of Action across social media and online across the state.

To encourage others to seek support by contacting 988, DHSS is seeking individuals with positive lived experiences who have contacted 988 and are willing to share their stories. Sharing stories of positive outcomes is one of the most effective ways to encourage and support others facing similar struggles to seek support through 988. Those willing to share their experience may submit their story through the 988 story form.

Delawareans now have emotional distress support at their fingertips with 988. Individuals who are struggling with their mental health or substance use or know someone who is should call or text 988, or chat 988lifeline.org/chat for a compassionate crisis counselor. Local counselors are available 24/7, and all contacts are free, confidential, and anonymous.

For more information about Delaware 988, please visit https://de.gov/988.

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