CCMH Joins Nationwide 988 Day to Raise Awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
September 08, 2026
CARROLLTON, Mo. – This September, Carroll County Memorial Hospital (CCMH) is joining organizations across the nation in recognizing the third annual 988 Day on September 8 (9/8). Led by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 988 Day is a national initiative designed to raise awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and encourage individuals to prioritize their mental well-being and seek help when needed.
The observance is part of September’s broader focus on Suicide Prevention Month, Mental Health Awareness, and Recovery, reinforcing the message that support is available and that no one has to face life’s challenges alone.
This year’s 988 Day theme, “988 Reasons: Your reason is enough,” highlights the many reasons people may reach out for help, whether they are experiencing emotional distress, a mental health challenge, substance use concerns, loneliness, grief, anxiety, or are worried about a friend or loved one.
CCMH is proud to support the 988 Lifeline and advocate for greater awareness of mental health resources available throughout Carroll County and the surrounding communities.
“Mental health is one of the most significant health priorities identified in our communities,” said Rachel Davidson, CCMH Chief Communications Officer. “Many individuals and families face challenges that can feel overwhelming. While access to mental health resources can sometimes be limited in rural areas, help is available. The 988 Lifeline is an important resource that anyone can access anytime, day or night, free of charge.”
Mental health was identified as a key priority through CCMH’s 2021 Community Health Needs Assessment. In response, CCMH helped establish the Mental Health Task Force in 2022, bringing together community partners to address mental health and substance use concerns, increase awareness of available resources, and identify actionable solutions to improve community well-being.
Since its formation, the task force has successfully launched and supported numerous initiatives focused on education, resource awareness, collaboration, and reducing the stigma often associated with seeking mental health care. The partnership continues to grow as organizations work together to strengthen support systems throughout the region.
The Mental Health Task Force includes, but not limited to, representatives from Carroll County Area YMCA, Carroll County Memorial Hospital, Centerstone (formerly Burrell Behavioral Health), Compass Health Network, HCC Network, HELP Services, Hometown Pharmacy, Jodi’s Family Pharmacy, Kansas City VA Medical Center, Missouri Valley Community Action Agency (MVCAA), Norborne American Legion Auxiliary, private practice mental health providers, local school districts, Senior Life Solutions, Shapes Dance & Acro leadership, and University of Missouri Extension. The composition of the task force evolves over time to reflect emerging community needs and priority focus areas, ensuring the involvement of organizations best positioned to support those efforts.
CCMH’s participation in 988 Day serves as a reminder that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, substance use concerns, emotional distress, or simply needs someone to listen, trained counselors are available through the 988 Lifeline 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Anyone can call, text, or chat 988 to connect with a skilled, compassionate, and nonjudgmental crisis counselor who can provide emotional support, help create a safety plan when needed, and connect individuals with local resources and services.
Since its launch in July 2022, the 988 Lifeline has responded to more than 26 million calls, texts, and chats nationwide, demonstrating the vital role the service plays in supporting individuals during difficult moments and connecting them with hope and help.
Throughout September, CCMH will share information and resources about mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and the 988 Lifeline on its social media platforms. Community members are encouraged to join the conversation by sharing mental health resources, supporting one another, and using the hashtag #988Day.
“Every person has a reason to reach out,” Davidson said. “Whether you’re struggling yourself, concerned about someone you love, or simply need someone to talk to, your reason is enough. Support is available, and you do not have to face it alone.”
For more information about CCMH’s community health initiatives, visit www.carrollcountyhospital.org or follow CCMH on social media.
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health challenges, emotional distress, substance use concerns, or thoughts of suicide, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to chat with a trained counselor 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
About CCMH
Carroll County Memorial Hospital (CCMH), the area’s premier healthcare resource, is a 25-bed Critical Access facility serving Carrollton and the surrounding communities. It offers 24-hour emergency care, specialized services such as advanced diagnostics, post-acute skilled care (swing bed) and comprehensive family care. CCMH is dedicated to the Health and Well Being of All We Serve. For more information, visit carrollcountyhospital.org.