In July 2022, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) announced the launch of a new three-digit dialing code for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL). Anyone experiencing suicidal or mental health-related distress can now receive care via call or text by calling or texting 9-8-8. These 24/7 services are free, confidential and available to individuals experiencing a suicidal or mental health-related crisis or to those worried about a loved one in crisis.
In a news release published November 17, 2022, DOH announced the launch of the new Native and Strong Lifeline, the first program of its kind dedicated to serving American Indian and Alaska Native people. Operated by Volunteers of America Western Washington (VOA), the Native and Strong Lifeline is accessible through the 9-8-8 dialing code. If the caller selects the Native and Strong Lifeline from the list of crisis line options, their call will be answered by a Native crisis counselor who is fully trained in crisis intervention and has a background in traditional Native healing culture and practices.
The news release features feedback from Native leaders in Washington, including Leonard Forsman, Chairman of the Suquamish Tribe. Forsman shares, “American Indians suffer from higher rates of suicide and mental health crises stemming from intergenerational trauma caused by the aggressive assimilation efforts of the federal government and religious institutions. We applaud the Washington State Department of Health’s recognition of these challenges and of the need for our people to receive culturally appropriate care in times of crisis.”
Learn more about the Native and Strong Lifeline by reading this news release or exploring DOH’s 988 Lifeline page.