Countywide campaign spreads awareness of mental health lifeline

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, local stakeholders have joined forces through the Flathead County Suicide Prevention Coalition to blanket the community with information about the 988 Lifeline. 

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support by trained specialists for those experiencing emotional distress, thoughts of suicide and/or mental health or substance use crises.  

They are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Calls made from Flathead County residents will be answered at the regional call center in Western Montana.  

“The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers nationwide access to trained specialists, ensuring consistent, immediate and compassionate support regardless of an individual's location,” said Brittany Blair, director of Crisis and Prevention Services at Western Montana Mental Health Center. “Specialists provide emotional support, risk assessments, safety planning guidance, resources, advocacy and a follow-up program.” 

According to Blair, people can call or text the phone number “988” or chat at 988lifeline.org for themselves or someone they are worried about. Help-seekers do not need to be in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts to use this service. Anyone is welcome to reach out anytime and for any reason for support. 

The Flathead County Suicide Prevention Coalition was created in December 2021 and is made up of community organizations focused on mental wellness, public health and suicide reduction. They meet monthly to identify community needs and collaboratively provide services to meet those needs. Throughout May, the Coalition will be partnering with numerous local nonprofit organizations and businesses to spread awareness through its “Life Can Get Tough” messaging. 

“This campaign is designed to connect us all and help us learn that resources are available to everyone who is struggling with life’s challenges,” said Ann Marie Bowlus, community education manager of the Nate Chute Foundation and the Coalition's coordinator. “You don’t have to think you’re suicidal or chronically depressed to need support. Sometimes you just need help dealing with life, and that’s okay.” 

For more information contact the Nate Chute Foundation at info@natechutefoundation.org.