Connect via text with a crisis counselor 24/7

Written by  Brooke Carbo

suicide awareness ribbon 492Follow @UABEAP on Facebook for weekly updates on ways to help someone in crisis.In 2017, 14 of every 100,000 Americans died by suicide — the highest age-adjusted suicide rate recorded in the U.S. since 1942 — according to analysis released earlier this year by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Suicide is an issue that does not discriminate, said Tami Long, Ph.D. “It touches everyone regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender or social class.”  Long is director of the UAB Employee Assistance & Counseling Center, which is launching a new text-based crisis support service during September, designated National Suicide Prevention Month.

“Suicide awareness starts with each of us, and having the conversation is the first step on the path to prevention,” Long said.

Text “UAB” to 741-741 to connect via text with a live, trained crisis counselor 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The EACC and UAB Student Counseling Services will provide free, confidential support to UAB students, employees and members of their immediate household in partnership with the National Crisis Text Line. Text “UAB” to 741-741 to connect via text with a live, trained crisis counselor 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Long hopes it will provide an avenue to help for people “who are afraid to reach out to a counselor because of shame or stigma. The Crisis Text Line is the next best option for support during difficult times.”

Two upcoming EACC events will offer expert advice and tools for suicide prevention. Learn more and register at uab.edu/bethe1to

Crisis counselors will not leave a conversation until the texter has a plan to stay safe. Once the conversation is over, Long said “they should reach out to a licensed professional for evaluation and individual therapy.”

During September, the EACC will give away Suicide Prevention Awareness Ribbons at its office in Five Points, the UAB Employment front office in the Administration Building and the UAB Hospital HR lobby. Stop by and pick up one.