Nationally, deaths by suicide among 15 to 23 year olds were 11% lower than what researchers expected between 2022 and 2024. In addition, 2022 was the year when the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline transitioned to the 988 number.Sweetser’s chief program officer, Kristie Worster, said she believes the 988 Lifeline has contributed to the decrease in suicides among young people.Worster noted that there is not always one sole reason for a reduction in suicidal ideation, but rather a combination of factors at play, including interventions, evidence-based clinical treatments, environmental supports and resilience strategies. But she did say there are a number of benefits to the shorter 988 number that have likely led to more people using the hotline, including text and chat capabilities and an immediate connection with a trained crisis counselor.”It also helps people navigate a very complex system for some people and it really helps lower the barriers,” Worster said. “We have a very easy-to-remember number for our medical emergencies. This now is a very easy-to-remember number for our mental health crises.”According to Worster, the statistics are promising and demonstrate the impact of the awareness and availability of treatment, support and resources, but they do not mean that the work is over. Worster said young people in Maine are still struggling and the numbers have trended worse than national averages.If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. People can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The hotline is free, confidential and available 24/7. The 988 website also features specific resources for young people.
PORTLAND, Maine —
Nationally, deaths by suicide among 15 to 23 year olds were 11% lower than what researchers expected between 2022 and 2024. In addition, 2022 was the year when the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline transitioned to the 988 number.
Sweetser’s chief program officer, Kristie Worster, said she believes the 988 Lifeline has contributed to the decrease in suicides among young people.
Worster noted that there is not always one sole reason for a reduction in suicidal ideation, but rather a combination of factors at play, including interventions, evidence-based clinical treatments, environmental supports and resilience strategies. But she did say there are a number of benefits to the shorter 988 number that have likely led to more people using the hotline, including text and chat capabilities and an immediate connection with a trained crisis counselor.
“It also helps people navigate a very complex system for some people and it really helps lower the barriers,” Worster said. “We have a very easy-to-remember number for our medical emergencies. This now is a very easy-to-remember number for our mental health crises.”
According to Worster, the statistics are promising and demonstrate the impact of the awareness and availability of treatment, support and resources, but they do not mean that the work is over. Worster said young people in Maine are still struggling and the numbers have trended worse than national averages.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. People can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The hotline is free, confidential and available 24/7. The 988 website also features specific resources for young people.