She encourages everyone to not be afraid in asking someone if they’re having suicidal thoughts. “We care for the people that we’re asking that question to. So it can be a little intimidating or unsure of what to do afterwards, and the biggest thing you can do is listen, give them support, help that person know they’re not alone, and connect that person to care,” Barnes says.
Most people in the U.S. don’t know they can call, text or send a chat message to 988 to reach licensed counselors trained to de-escalate a mental health crisis.
Barnes believes showing empathy and listening are the best things folks can do to help others. “You don’t have to have all the answers. I think sometimes people get scared that they have to be there to help solve things or know exactly what to say, and you don’t have to have all the answers, or know the exact next thing to say, and that’s normal,” Barnes says.
COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– Launching Saturday, a new three digit suicide and crisis lifeline will be available for callers nationwide. By dialing 9-8-8, instead of the previously used ten digit number, free and confidential support will be provided for anyone in distress or experiencing a crisis, twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. Officials say when people call, text,…
