BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – Many people are celebrating the holidays this year without a loved one at the table, and while it can be a tough burden to bear, people do not have to face it alone.
People who are grieving and want to talk with a counselor are urged to dial 988.
The lifeline is available 24/7, every day of the year, including over the holidays.
This season can make people feel isolated or can bring up thoughts about past trauma.
Officials with 988 say caring counselors are there to help.
While the resource is commonly associated with addressing suicidal thoughts, anyone can call.
People dealing with mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol and drug concerns, or who simply need to talk can contact 988.
Dr. Megan Hays, a clinical psychologist at UAB, highly recommends it.
“There are people trained on the other end of the call,” Hays said. “If you’re just in a moment of just acute distress, you know, you feel awful, you feel hopeless, you feel terrible, for any reason, it can be a number to call someone on the other line who is trained to help direct you to maybe a resource of just a listen.”
Conversations through 988 are free and confidential.
People who need help but are not comfortable calling can also text 988 for help.
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