La Crosse leaders raise awareness of suicide prevention and mental health resources
Anyone who needs support can call 211 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255
LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) — The family of a UW-La Crosse student who died by suicide wants others to know about the mental health resources available in the community. People can call 211, press one and they’ll be connected to someone who can help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is (800) 273-8255.
Even though mental health issues have increased during the pandemic, people are standing by around the clock for support. Friday night, La Crosse emergency leaders received a call about a person who died by suicide near Miller Bluff.
The UW-La Crosse student’s family spoke with university officials Monday about getting a message to other students about the people who can help them through their crisis.
“There are numerous resources in the La Crosse area,” said Amy Kuester, a line supervisor for Great Rivers 211, which connects people with the resources they need.
“Our specialists can provide emotional support. Help try to connect you to additional resources if necessary,” Kuester said.
La Crosse County’s Mobile Crisis Line (608-784-HELP (4357)) also provides 24-7 support. The pandemic amplified the community’s mental health problems. However, Kuester says more people are taking a courageous step, asking for help.
“Some more people reaching out to try to get into counseling and therapy,” Kuester said. “Which of course is always a wonderful thing.”
At Grandad Bluff Park, signs posted on the fence remind people — their life is valuable.
“We have had feedback that those have been uplifting for people,” Kuester said. “Just a quick message of hope.”
Hope that anyone struggling has an ally in La Crosse who is one phone call away.
Kuester encourages anyone who lost someone to suicide to contact them for support as well. Survivor networks in town understand this issue and are also available for support.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
800-273-TALK (8255)
Crisis Text Line
Text HOPELINE to 741741
Veterans Crisis Line
800-273-8255 (press 1)
Farmers Wellness Helpline
888-901-2558
TrevorLifeline (LGBTQ)
866-488-7386
County Crisis Lines:
Use this directory
Life-Threatening Emergency
911
Western Technical College Counseling Services
National Alliance on Mental Illness – La Crosse County
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