Lincoln County Health Department, Healthy Minds Coalition Look to Increase Awareness During Suicide Prevention Month

LINCOLN COUNTY – September is Suicide Prevention Month. The Lincoln County Health Department has joined with the Healthy Minds for Lincoln County Coalition to increase the public’s knowledge of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

The County Health Department recently put out a release stating that efforts include developing a pool of resources to aid with increasing awareness surrounding the 988 line. Wallet card, magnets and posters will be distributed that are customized for Lincoln County.  An increased focus has been given to men in Lincoln County, as they are disproportionately impacted by suicide, with 83% of the 40 suicides that occurred between 2017 and 2023 occurring among males. Wisconsin Department of Health statistics show that age groups most impacted were men ages 31-40 and 51-70. More than 640 calls have been made to 988 from Lincoln County since July of 2022

The LCHD reported that these resources have been mailed to worksites, first responders, veterans groups, clinics and churches in the county. Additionally, as a result of generous support from Aspirus Health, two billboards promoting 988 are located in Merrill and Tomahawk this month.

 “Although the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline launched several years ago, there are still community members who don’t know it’s available,” shared LCHD Public Health Educator Kristin Bath Kristin Bath. “Through these promotional efforts, we hope we can increase awareness and connect people to crisis support when it’s needed.”

The 988 Lifeline offers 24/7, free and confidential mental health and crisis support from trained counselors. The Lifeline is available via call, text or chat. You can learn more at www.988lifeline.org.