Suicide Prevention Month: Kern’s underused hotline that can help save lives

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. KGET) — September is Suicide Prevention Month. However, there is an underused resource available to Kern residents.

Kern’s 988 hotline is available if you or a loved one is suffering from suicidal thoughts. This hotline helps thousands every year, but lots of people don’t know about it.

“There are some that refuse to call to get help because they’re afraid they will be placed on a hold, a 5150, but that’s not the case,” said licensed Professional Psychologist, Javon Kemp said. “Most of the people that call in are able to get the help that they need through crisis counseling.”

Experts say most mental health crises are temporary and last only 15 minutes or so.

If you or someone you know needs help, call or text the crisis lifeline at 988 to connect with someone to walk you through it.

Having these kinds of conversations is important, as it lets people know they have help right at their fingertips.

The Kern County Administrative Building has changed their outside colors to blue and purple Wednesday morning to represent Suicide Prevention month.

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