SEATTLE — September is National Suicide Prevention Month and Washington state is seeing an increased demand for help when it comes to the national suicide and crisis line: 988.
Since launching in 2022, calls to 988 in Washington have doubled in two years and continue to increase.
In August 2024, there were 9,409 calls to 988 call centers across the state. Crisis counselors responded to 1,200 chats and 2,751 texts during that same month.
In August, 988 Lifeline crisis centers in Washington answered 93% of calls, 98% of texts, and 98% of chats in-state. The remaining percent went to the national call centers.
This percentage was higher than the national average for calls answered.
"Anyone experiencing mental health related to stress, or if you're supporting somebody, can contact the 988, suicide and crisis lifeline to get compassionate, accessible care and support from trained counselors," said Michele Roberts, assistant secretary for Prevention and Community Health in Washington State Department of Public Health.
July showed the highest number of calls received at 10,202. The Washington Department of Public Health attributes the increase to a campaign that aired through July bringing more awareness to the 988 program.
"Every month now in Washington state, we're getting over 9,000 phone calls, over 1,200 chats and nearly 3,000 texts coming in each month to the 988 call centers here in Washington. So, everybody can reach 988, in the way that's easiest for you, you can call, chat or text 988," Roberts said.
Some counselors feel mixed about the increase in calls to 988 but believe it is a sign that people are seeking help and the stigma surrounding mental health is slowly fading.
"On the one hand, it's heavy knowing that so many people are struggling, but it's wonderful to know that this resource is available and the awareness of it is growing," said Andrea Noble, an adolescent co-occurring disorders therapist and clinical supervisor with Youth Eastside Services.
Noble now helps teens where she used to get help herself growing up.
"There are still challenges with stigma. There are still challenges with shame. But I do believe we are making progress with that," she added.
Noble believes it is important for people struggling to know they are not alone and there is help and — someone who will listen.
Crisis counselors are ready 24/7 to answer the calls, texts and chats that come through 988.
"When someone reaches out, when first thing we just introduce ourselves, say, 'Hi, my name, for example, is Blanca. How may I help you?'" said Blanca Quiroz, a crisis call specialist with Crisis Connections.
Quiroz answers calls that come into 988. She believes the increase in calls is a sign of hope.
"I feel now many are realizing what this may relate to, my mental health isn't just something I'm going to brush off," Quiroz said.
Especially during National Suicide Prevention Month, mental health professionals are hoping conversations like this lead to change and help prevent suicides.
"The fact that we have gotten so much better at talking about mental health, that we are pushing against that stigma is hopeful," Noble said.
Help is available 24/7. If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988. It is free and confidential.