As September unfolds, we at NAMI Contra Costa are proud to be part of a critical initiative for mental health awareness and suicide prevention. On Sunday, September 8, NAMI CC and NAMI join the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in observing the inaugural 988 Day—a national effort to raise awareness about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Why 988 Day Matters

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a vital time to reshape public perceptions, spread hope, and provide crucial information to those affected by suicide or suicidal thoughts. Despite its significance, NAMI’s recent polling reveals that only about 1 in 4 adults are familiar with 988 and understand the support it offers.

The theme for 988 Day is “No Judgment. Just Help.” This underscores the core mission of the 988 Lifeline: offering compassionate, judgment-free support around the clock for individuals grappling with mental health crises, substance use issues, and more. The White House is also observing a “988 Day of Action” on Tuesday, September 10, which aligns with World Suicide Prevention Day, amplifying our collective efforts to prevent suicide and support mental health.

What is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline?

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides immediate, 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors who are equipped to offer support and guidance during moments of distress. Whether you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health crisis or needs help navigating substance use challenges, 988 is a resource available to everyone, everywhere, at any time. For more information on how 988 can assist you or someone you care about, visit the 988 Lifeline website.

Mark Your Calendar for These Events

Register today: White House 988 and World Suicide Prevention Action

The White House is planning a 988 Day of Action to follow 988 Day on Tuesday, September 10, which is World Suicide Prevention Day. You are invited to join a national stakeholder call on Monday, September 9 at 2:00 PM ET. Please use the link below to register.

NAMI CC’s 4th Annual Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Event

As part of our ongoing commitment to mental health advocacy and education, NAMI Contra Costa will host our fourth annual “Suicide Prevention Awareness Event” on September 21. This event will further our mission to educate the community about recognizing the signs of suicide and how to seek help. For more details, visit our event page: 4th Annual Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Event: Know the Signs.

Get Involved

This September, we encourage you to participate in 988 Day by spreading the word about the 988 Lifeline, engaging in conversations about mental health, and supporting the initiatives that aim to prevent suicide. Together, we can build a more informed and compassionate community.

Thank you for your continued support in making mental health a priority and working towards a future where everyone has access to the help they need.

988 Fact Sheets

988 Fact Sheets are available here in English and Spanish for your convenience.