Police remind residents about 988, free resource for people experiencing mental health-related distress

Wake Forest Police are reminding residents about 988 – the national suicide and crisis lifeline - following a weekend incident involving an individual experiencing a mental health crisis.

Just after 4 p.m. Sunday, police received a call from a person threatening suicide while driving along South Main Street/US 1A. Officers located and followed the vehicle to a downtown parking lot. Police negotiators then spent several hours talking to the individual, who was eventually transported unharmed to a local hospital.

Police say Sunday’s incident presents an opportunity to remind residents about 988 – the three-digit nationwide phone number that connects directly to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

In 2022 the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline was changed from a 10-digit number to 988. The number makes it easier for callers to connect with trained crisis counselors who can help people having suicidal thoughts, experiencing emotional distress, or having a substance-use-related crisis. People can call or text 988 for themselves or if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.

You do not need to be in crisis or suicidal to call 988 and speak with a counselor. The free service is available at all hours, day, or night, for anyone who needs support.

When you call 988 and connect with a local call center, trained mental health professionals are available to provide support, listen, and provide guidance on next steps to keep yourself and others safe. Support provided may include empathetic listening, coping skills, natural support, or referrals to community services.

If on-site support is needed, mobile crisis responders or 911 first responders may be activated.

988 is not a replacement for 911. If there is a life-threatening emergency that requires police, fire, or EMS response, or if someone is an immediate danger to themselves or others, please call 911 and request a Crisis Intervention Officer (CIO).

For more information about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, visit www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988.

In 2022, the Town of Wake Forest introduced “Focus on Mental Wellness” to emphasize the mental health crisis facing our nation and highlight its commitment to prioritizing mental wellness in our community. As part of the initiative, the Town will host a series of workshops, fairs, and training sessions to raise awareness about mental wellness and share information about programs, services, and resources available to anyone suffering from untreated or undertreated mental illness.

For more information, including information about the second annual Mental Wellness Fair on Saturday, Sept. 28, visit https://bit.ly/FocusonMentalWellness.