For the Tomahawk Leader
LINCOLN COUNTY – September is Suicide Prevention Month, and the Lincoln County Health Department (LCHD), with support from the Healthy Minds for Lincoln County Coalition, is working to increase the public’s knowledge of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
A release from LCHD said efforts include developing a number of resources to spread the word about 988, including wallet cards, magnets and posters that have been customized for Lincoln County.
“These resources have been mailed to worksites, first responders, veterans groups, clinics and churches in the county,” LCHD stated. “Also with generous support from Aspirus Health, two billboards promoting 988 are located in Merrill and Tomahawk this month.”
LCHD said special attention has been given to men in Lincoln County, who are disproportionately impacted by suicide. From 2017 to 2023, 83% of the 40 suicide deaths in the county occurred among men. The age groups most impacted were men ages 31-40 and 51-70, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health (DHS).
“Although the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline launched several years ago, there are still community members who don’t know it’s available,” said Kristin Bath, LCHD Public Health Educator. “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. It is available via call, text or chat. Learn more at www.988lifeline.org.
According to DHS, since July 2022, more than 640 calls have been made to 988 from Lincoln County.
To download or order 988 materials, visit www.bit.ly/HealthyMindsLincolnCounty or contact Kristin Bath at 715-539-1373 or [email protected].