Editor’s Note: Reach Out for Help

I am so sad to hear of the recent losses of young life in the Copper Basin. One of the risk factors for suicide is being part of a community that has experienced suicide. This is a dangerous time for people who struggle with suicidal ideation. It’s also true that just saying the word, “suicide” doesn’t make someone more likely to do it. In fact, talking openly can help.

In a heartfelt public social media post including testimony about the loss of her own sister, former Alaska Chief Medical Officer Ann Zink shared some hope. The 988 Crisis Textline appeared last week in national news after a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association showed states with more use of the hotline also saw a drop in expected rates of suicide. 

The study’s authors stated the hotline itself could be just one factor, adding “states with greater 988 Lifeline uptake may have simultaneously invested in other crisis or mental health initiatives.” Whether it is specifically the 988 Hotline, or other forms of help, the study strongly suggests: Reaching out for help truly helps. 

I was a volunteer for the 988 Crisis Hotline. Often, my role was just to keep people company while they did the hard work of getting through their worst moment. Sometimes, I could help people remember how they got through another crisis. That helped them remember they could get through this one. 

I was often struck by how funny, kind, smart, or quirky the people I talked to were. I’m glad they made the choice to reach out for help and made it through the day. I hope they also received the longer term help and support they needed. 

Later in May, you’ll see 988 graphics in the paper in donated space. 

CRNA has a 24 hour crisis line: 907-320-1520. To reach a national volunteer, text 988. To learn about financial resources for mental health treatment, call 211. We hope to bring you more information about local resources in upcoming issues.