Summer is the peak time for suicides in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Missouri offers resources for those facing mental health challenges year-round, including the 988 hotline that provides access to help for any problem. Data from the Missouri Department of Mental Health shows an increase in demand for mental health services, with 988 calls increasing by over 2,000 per month from May 2023 to May of this year.
Kristie Morton, who lost her son Hunter to suicide in 2022, founded You Matter, Archie to support kids and teens in her community. She is a strong advocate for the 988 hotline and even called it herself to see how it can help others. Morton believes in the importance of having someone to talk to and provide support during difficult times, especially for parents who have lost a loved one to suicide.
The state of Missouri continues to fund the 988 hotline, with over $3 million allocated for crisis response teams and equipment in the 2025 fiscal year budget. The hotline has been successful in providing support to Missourians, with a majority of calls being answered in-state and quickly. If you need help or know someone who does, do not hesitate to reach out for support through the 988 hotline.
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