During Suicide Prevention Month, the team at VIA LINK wants our community to know about
the many services available to help individuals in our region. Part of VIA LINK’s suicide
prevention work involves answering the 9–8–8 system, the national suicide prevention lifeline,
for area codes 225, 504, and 985. VIA LINK specialists are available 24/7 to provide emotional
support, crisis intervention, and suicide prevention. Callers can also receive referrals to local
behavioral health agencies and facilities.

“Throughout the month our licensed social workers are participating in events to highlight
prevention services and provide education on suicide response,” explained LaVondra Dobbs,
CEO of VIA LINK. “We provide trainings on suicide education and response, crisis intervention,
and trauma. Statewide we offer a virtual Survivors of Suicide Loss support group which is free to
join and meets every Thursday. In addition to 9-8-8 callers, people can also use the Chat With Us
icons on our website to start talking with a crisis intervention specialist. We encourage people to
reach out to us.”

For more information on the virtual Survivors of Suicide Support Group, please email
[email protected] To learn more about training and outreach, please email [email protected]
Visit VIA LINK’s Facebook page or website at www.vialink.org