Wyoming-Based Suicide Prevention Hotline Now Available
A new Wyoming-based suicide prevention lifeline will strengthen the response available for state residents who find themselves in crisis, according to the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH).
“If you, or someone you know, is in immediate danger, the right thing to do is to call 911,” said Lindsay Martin, Injury and Violence Prevention Program manager with WDH.
“We know talking with someone about your thoughts and feelings can help save your life,” Martin said. “With lifeline options, people call or text to discuss many things: financial troubles, relationships, sexual identity, depression, illness, and loneliness are a few examples.”
“We want anyone who is experiencing feelings of crisis or potentially suicidal thoughts to reach out. People are willing to listen and help, and resources available,” Martin said.
Residents in crisis should call 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Central Wyoming Counseling Center in Casper is operating the new Wyoming Lifeline with funding from WDH, which was approved earlier this year by the Wyoming Legislature and Governor Mark Gordon.
The Wyoming Lifeline call center will answer calls 8 hours a day, five days a week. At other times, calls will be directed to backup call centers nationwide through the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Martin said another option for residents seeking help and support is to text “WYO” to 741-741 for the Crisis Text Line.
The Wyoming Lifeline call center can refer callers to local community mental health resources knowledgeably. There is no charge for anyone who calls the lifeline number or texts the Crisis Text Line.
Suicide is a leading cause of preventable death in Wyoming. The state has historically had one of the highest suicide rates in the nation and was second-highest in 2018.
Suicide Warning Signs
These signs may mean someone is at risk for suicide. Risk is greater if a behavior is new or has increased and if it seems related to a painful event, loss, or change.
- Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself.
- Looking for a way to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun.
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.
- Talking about being a burden to others.
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
- Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.
- Sleeping too little or too much.
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated.
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.
- Displaying extreme mood swings.
Suicide is Preventable.
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline a 1-800-273-TALK(8255)
With Help Comes Hope
Suicide Prevention Life
SAFE TO TELL ON OUR FRONT PAGE
Local Resources
Northern Wyoming Mental Health Center
PO Box 646
Sundance Wyoming
1-307-283-3636
YOU CAN CALL THIS NUMBER AND SOMEONE WILL BE IN CONTACT WITH YOU
Katie Allen, Community Prevention Specialist
Be Well Coalition - A Drug Free Communities Coalition
Crook County Public Health
420 ½ E Main St
Sundance WY 82729
307-283-1142 w
Crook County Prevention
Campbell County Suicide Prevention Coalition
1211 S. Douglas Highway, Suite 215
Gillette, WY 82716 (307) 696-8027
swilkins@pmowyo.org Or –Find us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/CampbellCountySuicidePreventionCoalition
Additional settings for Safari Browser.
