by Dennis Dalman
Behavioral-health crises and suicide threats and attempts have increased in Sartell in October, said Sartell Police Chief Jim Hughes at the Nov. 14 city-council meeting.
The number of such calls Sartell police were dispatched to increased from 9 in September to 29 in October.
Such personal crises tend to increase before and during holiday times, Hughes noted. He suggested people keep a close eye on loved ones, friends and others and help them find resources for their problems.
The Suicide-and-Crisis Lifeline, open 24-7, is available by dialing 988. It provides free and confidential support for people in distress, with trained counselors to help people connect with emergency resources.
There are more than 200 crisis centers serving the Lifeline.
Numerous studies have shown that callers feel less suicidal, less depressed, less overwhelmed and much more hopeful after speaking with a Lifeline counselor.