HR878: HR878 The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline; commend

25 LC 112 3604 House Resolution 878 By: Representatives Wade of the 9th, Silcox of the 53rd, Clifton of the 131st, Willis of the 55th, Chastain of the 7th, and others A RESOLUTION Commending the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline; and for other purposes.1 WHEREAS, behavioral health conditions, including mental and substance use disorders, are2 critical public health issues, and 988 was established to improve access to crisis services in3 response to the country's growing suicide and mental health-related crisis care needs; and4 WHEREAS, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a direct, national three-digit number that5 connects individuals with suicide prevention and mental health crisis resources, which are6 distinct from the public safety purposes of 911; and7 WHEREAS, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides crucial s upport for people in8 distress, reducing the burden on emergency rooms and law enforcement; and9 WHEREAS, 988 calls, texts, and chats in the State of Georgia are answered by the Georgia10 Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year; and11 WHEREAS, this vital service has the potential to save lives and foster healthier communities12 by reducing stigma, promoting help-seeking behavior, and ensuri ng that people in crisis13 receive timely and appropriate care; and14 H. R. 878 - 1 - 25 LC 112 3604 WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable mental health resource15 be appropriately honored during this special time.16 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that17 the members of this body commend the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for its outstanding18 service on behalf of citizens in need and express best wishes for continued success.19 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized20 and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution avai lable for distribution to the21 public and the press.22 H. R. 878 - 2 -