These are challenging, unprecedented times and we cannot ignore the mental health consequences for our industry and communities. Resources are available to individuals suffering and needing to talk to someone. Below is a compilation of resources available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 800-273-8255.

Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 800-273-8255
This lifeline is available to everyone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is staffed by a network of crisis centers to provide free, emotional support to those in need.

Crisis Text Line – Text “MOTALK” to 741741
For those of us that are not always able to put into words how we are feeling or are not comfortable vocalizing our fears, the Crisis Text Line is also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Text MOTALK to 741741 to converse with a trained crisis counselor.

Access Crisis Intervention Line
Formerly known as the Behavioral Health Crisis Line, the Access Crisis Intervention Line provides access to services in your area such as resources within your community, behavioral health appointments, and mobile responses. Each region in Missouri has its own hotline number to contact, so please visit https://dmh.mo.gov/mental-illness/program-services/behavioral-health-crisis-hotline and select your home county to get in contact with a behavioral health specialist in your area.

The Disaster Distress Helpline – 800-985-5990
The Disaster Distress Helpline is dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for anyone experiencing distress due to a natural or human-caused disaster. Use of this helpline is free of charge and available to any United State resident experiencing stress, anxiety, and other symptoms related to distress. Call 800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

National Domestic Violence Hotline
Avoiding public spaces and working remotely can help to reduce the spread of COVID-19, but for many people staying home may not be the safest option. External factors that add stress and financial strain can negatively impact people and create circumstances where their safety is further compromised. If you feel unsafe in your home or are concerned that a family member, a friend or a co-worker is unsafe, please contact the hotline. Additionally, if you are concerned that your words and actions towards your partner are unhealthy, please reach out. All callers are treated with dignity and respect and provided helpful resources. Call today at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or chat online at https://www.thehotline.org/help.

Missouri Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline
Without the support that schools and afterschool programs provide to children, along with the additional stress of social distancing and financial strain on families, there are children who will be in danger of abuse or neglect during this time. If you have concerns about a child’s wellbeing, please call 1-800-392-3738. This is a toll-free telephone line which is answered seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

In addition to the resources above, we encourage you to reach out to those you know are in a dire situation. If that person is you, please call a friend.