The Truth about 988 and How to Get Support for Your Loved One in Crisis
Speakers
- Dr. Suzanne Tavano, Contra Costa Behavioral Health Director
- Tom Tamara, Executive Director of the Contra Costa County Crisis Center
Summary
For our August General Meeting, NAMI Contra Costa enlightened attendees on how to get support for their loved ones in crisis utilizing the new 988 number, which should not be confused with the local efforts in California that we were waiting to see passed, AB 988, also known as the Miles Hall Lifeline Act. We invited Contra Costa County Staff leading the implementation of the A3 (Anyone, Any place, Anytime) Miles Hall Community Crisis Hub program to share updates. This discussion was critical to better understand how to support individuals experiencing a mental health emergency and what needed to be improved to further promote a much-needed non-police response in our county.
988 Replaces National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Replacing the 10-digit National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 988 became available nationwide on July 16, 2022, as an easily accessible and memorable number for anyone to call if experiencing or supporting someone in a mental health, substance use, or suicide emergency. This 3-digit number allowed individuals to connect swiftly to trained staff. This launch left many Contra Costa County residents confused. We shed light on the importance of understanding 988 on a local level and national level.
Community Healing Event (Gigi’s 60th Birthday)
As a reminder, the Community Healing Event/Gigi’s 60th Birthday with a live band with music for the soul, games, food, networking, laughter, and prayer will be held at Todos Santos Plaza on October 8th, 2022, from 2 p.m.-6 p.m. We share critical information on 988 (previously the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) and shared updates on AB988 (The Miles Hall Lifeline Act). Attendees were able to donate $9.88, $98.80, $988, or even $9,880 to celebrate Gigi’s birthday and continue the work we at NAMI CC do to support those in need and avoid a crisis. Donations can be received by check or visiting our website.
