Thanks to rapper Logic, telephone number 1-800-273-8255 has been receiving a lot more calls.
1-800-273-8255 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline received 33 percent more calls after Logic’s song was released, according to Variety Magazine.
The 24/7 suicide lifeline was created as one way for suicidal people to get help.
Mental Health America states that 64 percent of people who attempt suicide visit a doctor in the month before their attempt.
This shows that more than half of the people attempting to kill themselves wanted help but might be too afraid to talk about it in person. The hotline provides anonymity for callers if they want to feel more secure.
Behavior Health Services North Inc. therapist, Amy Belair, said that people call the lifeline because they feel more protected.
“They don’t feel that someone is going to freak out on them, call the cops or try to call a mental health provider,” Belair said.
The operators behind the calls are trained professionals. They specialize in knowing what to do and say in an emergency.
Even though the calls are anonymous, if an operator senses that there is an immediate danger they will screen the call and send help.
Kelli Smith, public relations major and junior, feels that the hotline should be communicated more to younger people.
“I can only hope kids who feel that way know there’s someone you can talk to no matter what,” Smith said. “There are people willing to talk to you with no judgment for when it feels like you can’t take it anymore.”
Behavior Health Services North, Inc. (BHSN) is a crisis center located in Plattsburgh. The crisis center serves the North Country and has its own 24/7 suicide lifeline (1-866-5PREVENT).
BHNN can also provide suicide screening for anyone who needs help.
“We have cards if someone is suicidal but not actively suicidal,” Amy said. “They have the suicide hotline number so they can call if they’re at home and become actively suicidal.”
These hotlines don’t have to be used just for people who feel suicidal. The hotlines can also be used by people who suspect someone else might harm themselves.
When the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is called, they will help the callers figure out resources in their area. They will then reroute the caller to the lifeline closest to their location.
Nicole White, public relations major and junior, understands how important it is to make lifelines known.
“Logic’s song and influencers are really helping to reach a group of people who may be hesitant,” White said. “They are spreading this new message of self-help and we need to keep it going.”
No matter who you are, knowing the signs of suicide are important.
If you or someone you may know is threatening to hurt oneself, feeling hopeless, rage or uncontrolled behavior and increased alcohol and drug use don’t be afraid to get help.
Email Tracey Fox at fuse@cardinalpointsonline.com
