July 21, 2022, 06:56 PM
TMatsNew 3-digit Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988
The theme for Cheyenne Frontier Days this year is “The Pickup Man,” a reference to the mounted cowboys in the arena who ride in at the end of a bareback or saddle bronc ride to “pickup” the rider from the bucking horse. quote:The campaign encourages people to “reach out to a Pick Up Man or be a Pick Up Man for someone in need.” People contemplating suicide are directed to the new nationwide 988 Suicide Prevention Hotline. Individuals who see friends, family members, or neighbors struggling with mental health are encouraged to reach out.
CFD Pickup Man Initiative
The committee I work on for the show was introduced to the Suicide Prevention Initiative a few days ago with this image on our facebook page, and these words:
quote:Just one photo tonight: this is my favorite cowboy Cole, who I will not see around the park this year because he died by suicide on October 5, 2021. The world is not a better place without him. If you're here in Cheyenne, you'll see people wearing yellow feathers in their hats to honor him; I have a pocket in my camera bag filled with yellow feathers so if you see me and want one, just ask. Whether you're here in Cheyenne or not, please memorize the new National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number: 988. The rate of suicide is shocking in Wyoming, and everywhere, really. Please, talk to your people. The loss is just too much.
Sad but true, the state of Wyoming leads the nation in suicide on a per capita basis. If you come to CFD this year, I’ll be among those with a yellow feather in my hat. Too many lost.
quote:The 988 Lifeline
988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. (Please note, the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number will continue to function indefinitely.)
988 Lifeline