Stand UP Cass County and Mental Health America celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month 2025

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Last Updated on May 21, 2025 by Cass County Communication Network

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Stand UP Cass County and Mental Health America are proud to celebrate and promote the invaluable resource of 988. This essential service is designed to connect individuals with trained counselors, offering support for anyone in crisis—not just those experiencing suicidal thoughts.

Pictured above: Stand UP Cass County, in partnership with Mental Health America, Indiana Youth Institute, Area 5, and Youth Services Alliance hosted a special presentation about 988 on May 12 that included a mayoral proclamation that attendees signed as an agreement to advocate for mental health awareness and 988.

Introducing the 988 Resource

988 is a lifeline available to anyone in need, providing a safe, anonymous, and supportive connection with a trained counselor 24/7. Whether you prefer to call or text, 988 ensures you are connected with a regional contact like Mental Health America, offering a compassionate ear and expert guidance.

Features of the 988 Service

  • Available 24/7: Access support any time, day or night.
  • Anonymous: Your privacy is respected, and you can choose to remain anonymous.
  • No Law Enforcement Involvement: The service is solely focused on providing mental health support. (unless you are considered to be harmful to yourself or others)
  • Crisis Intervention: Use 988 for any crisis, not just suicidal thoughts.
  • Multiple Communication Options: Call or text for support.
  • Regional Connection: Connect with local resources and contacts.
  • Follow-Up Support: Receive follow-up call to ensure ongoing support.
  • Guidance and Planning: Create a safety or action plan without receiving direct advice.
  • Support for Others: Call or text on someone else’s behalf if needed.
  • Navigator Scheduling: Arrange a session with a navigator if further assistance is required.

With 98% of calls being deescalated successfully, 988 stands as a testament to the power of compassionate communication and support. This Mental Health Awareness Month, we urge everyone to help spread the word about 988, a vital tool in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

Reach Out for Any Reason
Whether you’re feeling lonely, anxious, worried, or lacking a support system, 988 is here for you. The service can also assist in connecting individuals with various forms of assistance. Also keep in mind that substance use and mental health are closely intertwined, as individuals struggling with mental health issues may turn to substances as a form of self-medication, while substance use can exacerbate existing mental health conditions or even trigger new ones. Remember, seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.

Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month by sharing the importance of 988. Together, we can foster a community that is supportive, informed, and ready to break the stigma surrounding mental health.

SOURCE: News release from Stand UP Cass County

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