State-wide suicide prevention drive urges residents to reach out during mental health crises
In a proactive step to address its rising suicide rates, Tennessee has launched the “Promise to Call” campaign, encouraging residents to use the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline during moments of mental health distress. The statewide initiative aims to reduce the stigma around seeking help and highlights the critical role of mental health support services.
Suicide Rates in Tennessee: A Growing Concern
- Tennessee’s suicide rate is 20% higher than the national average, according to state health officials.
- In 2024, suicide was one of the leading causes of death among people aged 10 to 34 in the state.
- Mental health advocates report that many Tennesseans still hesitate to seek help during crises.
What is the 988 Lifeline?
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a confidential, 24/7 mental health support hotline, launched nationally in 2022 to replace the previous 10-digit suicide prevention line. It connects callers with trained counselors who can provide:
- Immediate emotional support
- Crisis de-escalation
- Referral to local mental health services
About the “Promise to Call” Initiative
The campaign asks residents to make a personal pledge that they will reach out for help if they or someone they know is struggling mentally. The messaging is designed to foster openness and trust among families, workplaces, and schools.
“When people are in crisis, having a number that’s easy to remember can be life-saving. But just having 988 isn’t enough—we need to encourage people to actually call it,” said a spokesperson from the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.
A Model for Other States
Tennessee’s campaign is among the first large-scale state efforts focused on promoting 988 awareness as a preventive tool, potentially serving as a model for other U.S. states facing similar mental health challenges.
Source: Axios – Tennessee launches ‘Promise to Call’ suicide prevention campaign
