Beacon Mental Health representatives are encouraging residents to seek help for mental health concerns before they reach a crisis, emphasizing 988 is a resource for more than suicidal emergencies.

Director of Youth Services and Prevention Elizabeth Stanford and Clinical Supervisor Andy Hamon recently spoke to Ray County Coalition members about suicide prevention, recognizing when someone may be struggling and resources available to help. The presentation came as September is recognized as Suicide Prevention Month.

Beacon Mental Health is working to increase awareness of 988 as a resource for people experiencing mental health concerns, rather than one reserved only for those who are suicidal.

“I think it initially was marketed so much toward only using it if you’re suicidal, but that’s not the only thing it’s for,” said Stanford. “Of course, if you are suicidal, you can use it, but we want folks to get used to 988 instead of 911 when it comes to mental health needs.”

Stanford noted Beacon i…