Area health professionals predict new suicide hotline will have immediate, positive impact

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ohio — There's a new hotline meant to help with the mental health crisis in America.

In Jefferson County, medical providers are already feeling the impact of the new 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

"This 988 is huge,” said Wendy Ralston, clinical manager, Trinity Behavioral Health Systems. “We see on average 19 deaths per month in Jefferson County."

Launched this summer, 988 is looking to give those in need an easier way to seek help if facing mental distress, as well as those worried family members seeking help for a loved one.

"I think we're going to see suicide rates go down drastically," Ralston said.

And this new hotline isn't just for those who are contemplating taking their life, it's a resource, at the tip of your fingers, for those who may be facing depression, mental struggles, or even addiction. It’s a way out of the dark, and according to Ralston, there's many resources locally to get that help.

"There's many other services in the Jefferson County area that can say, ‘hey, here's a counselor, lets set you up with an outpatient appointment.’ Or 'this is something where you should go to the emergency room, and we can further evaluate you so you're in a safe environment,' " Ralston said.

And other services in the area agree and hope this fights the stigma associated with mental health, and in terms of who exactly this impacts.

"Every person. Every person that lives here in Jefferson County, every person that lives in the state of Ohio," said Andrea Dominick, chief officer, Coleman Professional Services.

And although it’s a small number, Dominick says it can make a big difference.

"It’s a huge impact because it’s immediate access. Everyone can remember 988. It’s just that simple," she said.

"And if you or a loved one are in crisis, you can text, chat, or call at 988.