The Family Counseling Center Focuses on #988 Lifeline
July 16, 2024 marks two years since the official launch of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. In that time, 988 has emerged as a crucial outlet for individuals in crisis across the country, offering vital support and resources to those contemplating suicide or facing mental health challenges.
Since its launch, the 988 hotline has significantly impacted mental health crisis intervention in the United States. The simplified number has made it easier for individuals in crisis to access help, resulting in increased call volumes and a greater number of people receiving timely support. The hotline connects callers with trained crisis counselors who can provide immediate assistance, de-escalation, and referrals to local resources. Before 988, individuals in crisis often had to navigate a patchwork of local and national helplines, making it difficult to receive timely assistance. Similar to 911, the 988 dialing code connects callers to over 200 locally operated and funded crisis centers across the country. 988 can also receive text messages from individuals in crisis or family and friends who are worried about a loved one.
The Family Counseling Center has several programs that offer help to those in crisis. The Drop-In Center is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The agency’s Mobile Crisis Counselor is available to children and youth throughout Fulton County during business hours. A 24-hour Crisis Hotline is also accessible to clients in need.
“Our crisis teams work closely with individuals and their families,” notes Francesca Nare, Drop-In Center Manager at The Family Counseling Center. “We partner with the individual in crisis to create a space and a plan that both de-escalates the moment and ensures safety once they leave our offices. 988 is a resource for anyone who needs help – be it a suicidal moment, a point of severe crisis, or a family member seeking support for their loved one.”
The Family Counseling Center is open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Fridays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Drop-In Center at TFCC is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is closed 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. daily for lunch.
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