If you’re in crisis on Christmas, remember 211 and 988

As the lyrics say, all is supposed to be merry and bright during the holidays, but there are times when life has other plans. It’s been a while since I’ve faced a “Long Dark Christmas of the Soul,” but it has happened, and “merry” and “bright” were not words I’d use to describe that time.

If you’re in the Tampa Bay area and things for you are far from merry and bright, take advantage of First Contact (formerly 211 Tampa Bay Cares).

First Contact originated in the 1970s as the 2-1-1 Helpline, a crisis intervention hotline in Pinellas County, that offered support to individuals facing challenges like loneliness and thoughts of suicide. Over the years, it merged with the United Way’s Information and Referral line and evolved into a comprehensive resource for crisis intervention, family support, and referral services throughout the Tampa Bay region and across the state of Florida.

211 is a three-digit phone number that will connect you to information and referral services to health, human, and social service organizations. If you’re in the Tampa Bay area, that service is First Contact, but if you’re elsewhere, it will connect you to the equivalent services in your area.

988 is a three-digit number that will connect you to a suicide and crisis lifeline. If you are in crisis or experiencing thoughts of suicide, call 988!

You can dial 988 to receive support and resources for thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress.

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Here’s hoping that your holidays are safe and happy. If they’re not, please take advantage of 211 and 988 — that’s what they’re there for.