988 Day: A Call to Action to the Workforce

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The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is excited to announce the launch of the first annual 988 Day on Sunday, September 8th, and invites the workforce to join in this important initiative. SAMHSA is promoting awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and the critical mental health support it provides. For 2024, the theme is “No Judgment. Just Help”, emphasizing the importance of providing non-judgmental, accessible support to anyone in need.

988 Day and Mental Health Awareness Month

September is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about mental health issues and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. This makes it a perfect time to launch 988 Day and to focus on promoting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

What is 988 Day?

988 Day is a chance for communities and organizations to creatively and positively promote the 988 Lifeline. It’s about creating a supportive environment where people feel comfortable reaching out for help. Whether it’s through social media campaigns, community events, or educational programs, 988 Day encourages everyone to get involved in raising awareness about mental health resources.

How Can the Workforce Participate in 988 Day?

Here are a few ways the workforce can support 988 Day and make a difference:

Leverage the 988 Day Digital Toolkit: SAMHSA has developed a comprehensive digital toolkit that includes a variety of digital and print materials tailored for 988 Day. Available in both English and Spanish, this toolkit offers ready-made social media graphics and copy to help you easily promote the day.
Plan Your Activities: Think about ways your organization can get involved. You might host a mental health awareness fair, distribute informational materials at community centers or schools, or encourage employees to create artwork expressing the 988 Day theme. Since September is also Mental Health Awareness Month, consider integrating your 988 Day activities with any ongoing initiatives or events you have planned for the month.
Promote Your Efforts on Social Media: On Sunday, September 8th, use the hashtag #988Day to share your organization's activities and show your support for this year’s theme, “No Judgment. Just Help.” By sharing your efforts online, you help amplify the message and encourage others to participate.
Engage with the 988 Day Social Event Wall: Throughout the day, check out the 988 Day Social Event Wall to see a compilation of activities happening across the country. It's a great way to connect with others who are passionate about mental health awareness and to see the collective impact of our efforts.

Why Your Participation Matters

By joining, the workforce can help promote mental health awareness and support those in crisis. 988 Day is a call to action to foster a culture of support and understanding. Let’s come together on 988 Day to show that there is “No Judgment. Just Help.”

COMING SOON: "Creating a Culture of Mental Health Support: Leveraging the 988 Crisis Line in the Workplace" webinar.

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Content Details

Topics:

General Workforce Activities

Target Populations:

General Audience

Programs:

WIOA Dislocated Worker Programs

Geographic Locations:

National Scope

Industry Sectors:

Cross-Industry

Last Updated:
Created:
Resource Publication Date: 2024
Posted by: Ashley Moore
Posted in: National Dislocated Worker Grants