Sen. Tharp: Mental Health Services Are Vital To Community Wellness, He Highlights 9-8-8 Importance
New 9-8-8 helpline launches Saturday, July 16 MARYVILLE – The National Suicide Prevention Hotline’s 9-8-8 dial code is set to activate on Saturday, July 16, and State Senator Kris Tharp is highlighting its importance to community wellness in the Metro East. “In my experience as a law enforcement officer and jail administrator in Madison County, I can attest to the importance of offering services and support to individuals struggling with their mental health,” said Tharp (D-Bethalto). “I encourage residents to spread the word on this new 9-8-8 helpline, it could save a life.” For support, individuals in need can dial 9-8-8 on a phone to be connected with a trained mental health professional who can provide direct assistance during an emotional crisis. In Illinois’ Fiscal Year 2023 budget, implemented as of July 1 of this year, mental health care and community-based substance use disorder treatment providers were appropriated an increase o
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