We need a statewide crisis line to prevent suicide

​No mother wants to hear her child speak the words “I want to die.” But for parents of children battling depression, that is a fear. And for me, it became a reality when one of my sons was struggling and needed help.

I spoke to the Political Subdivisions Interim Committee this week at the capitol.

I recently penned an op-ed in the Deseret News describing this experience and how it prompted me to look into the mental health crisis resources available in Salt Lake County. I learned about the phenomenal work by the men and women at the University of Utah Neuropsychiatric Institute, better known as “UNI.”

But I also learned that across the state there are 19 different crisis lines, many with limited hours and staffing. Even in Salt Lake County, we need greater awareness of the crisis resources that are available.

State presents to Council on three digit crisis line

On Tuesday Attorney General Sean Reyes’ chief of staff Missy Larsen and state Rep. Steve Eliason presented to our county council on this issue. They spoke of Utah’s suicide rate (5th highest in the nation), and discussed how suicide is now the number one killer of Utah teens. The rate of suicide by seniors is climbing in Utah.

Wednesday I spoke to the legislature’s Political Subdivisions interim committee about this issue. I was moved by how passionate the legislators were about addressing this issue. So many had had personal experiences with it in some capacity, whether through a family member or someone in their church congregation.

This week I learned there is incredible consensus and support for establishing a statewide, dedicated, three digit mental health crisis line to connect more Utahns with needed support. I know that 311 has been floated in the past for this purpose. Our coalition working on this issue will look at all numbers available and determine the best one that will fit the needs.

I know there are many people still struggling, both parents aching for their children and individuals grappling with these issues themselves. It is imperative that we prioritize solving this issue. We’ll be working hard in the coming weeks and months to find a solution. In the meantime, everyone should download the SAFEUT app on your smartphone. And in times of crisis you can always call 801.587.3000 to talk to a trained counselor in a free and confidential call.

Additional news coverage

• Deseret News
• Salt Lake Tribune
• Rod Arquette Show
• Fox13
• ABC4

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