On Saturday, July 16, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline transitions to 988. The three-digit dialing code will route calls to the existing Lifeline network and provide a connection to local support and services for those experiencing a mental health crisis.
Johnson County Mental Health Center’s 24/7 Crisis Line will also continue to be available to our clients and community. Help is available day or night by calling 913-268-0156.
A mental health crisis is any situation in which a person’s feelings or behaviors put them at risk of hurting themselves or others or prevent them from being able to care for themselves. Many stressors, like changes in home life, stress at school or work, substance use and isolation, can contribute to someone experiencing a mental health crisis.
A mental health crisis can take many forms with varying signs and symptoms; there is no one sign that identifies a person experiencing a crisis or at risk of suicide. So, it’s important to know the warning signs, take them seriously when you see them and know when to get help. Some signs to look out for include:
- Feeling sad, withdrawn or unmotivated for more than two weeks
- Making plans of trying to harm or kill oneself
- Inability to perform daily tasks
- Drastic changes in personality, mood and/or behavior
- Rapid mood swings, increased energy level, inability to stay still, pacing
- Suddenly depressed or withdrawn, or suddenly happy or calm after a period of depression
- Withdrawal from friends, family and normal activities
- Increased agitation, violent or out-of-control behavior
- Increased substance use
- Sense of utter hopelessness and helplessness
You can call or text 988 or call 913-268-0156 if you or a loved one are experiencing a mental health crisis, including risk of suicide, self-harm, or substance use, and a trained crisis counselor will be available to provide support and resources. If someone is an immediate danger to themselves or others, please call 911.
In 2021, Johnson County Mental Health Center staff began answering local calls to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Answering those calls served as a preliminary step to providing coverage for calls to the new three-digit dialing code, 988. We are grateful and excited to be a part of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network, receive calls to 988 and provide hope and support that will help people overcome crisis situations.
