VIDEO: During Suicide Prevention Month, Peters Speaks on Senate Floor to Highlight Importance of 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) took to the Senate floor to highlight the importance of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which provides free and confidential mental health counseling to every American. The speech comes after Peters joined his colleagues in introducing a resolution recognizing September 8^th as "988 Day" to raise awareness of this essential resource.

"According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the 10^th leading cause of death in the United States. Perhaps even more heartbreaking, it is the second-leading cause of death for our young people," said Peters during his remarks. "Too many people across our country - parents, spouses, children, and friends - are dealing with the unimaginable loss of a loved one."

Peters' speech acknowledged that too often, individuals who die by suicide are struggling alone, or did not receive proper treatment for their condition. Research shows that timely intervention is among the best ways to prevent someone from taking their own life, and Peters emphasized the critical role that the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline plays in delivering that essential support.

"As a society, we have an obligation to provide that lifesaving crisis support to every American in every community, and that's exactly what the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline does. Across our country, Americans facing mental health struggles can access free and confidential support 24/7, 365 days a year," said Peters.

To watch the full video of Peters' speech on the Senate floor, click here.

Peters went on to thank crisis support counselors and highlighted the important role they play in providing mental health support to prevent individuals from making the decision to take their own life.

"I want to commend the crisis support counselors across America who answer these calls and help deliver this vital support to every citizen, day and night. Your compassion, dedication, and willingness to be there for others during an incredibly difficult moment literally saves lives," said Peters.

Peters concluded the speech by recognizing Michigander Bob Goble, an Air Force veteran and veteran suicide prevention advocate who has led the charge to ensure the 988 Lifeline also provides specialized counseling for all veterans in need of support.

"He [Bob] has worked tirelessly to ensure 988 connects his fellow veterans with qualified Veterans Affairs counselors who can provide the specialized mental health support they deserve, and have certainly earned."

Peters concluded, "No one should have to suffer alone. So, if you or someone you know is in need of support, please call, text, or chat 988. Caring counselors are there to help."

You can read more about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline here.

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