Frightening email sparks reminder of mental health resources
JACKSON, Tenn. — A frightening message to our newsroom set off a multi-agency search for someone in crisis. It’s also a reminder that help is always one call or text away.
Last night, our newsroom received an alarming message. One person claimed they were going to kill themselves. We immediately reached out to local authorities, hoping a wellness check could lead to help in time.
The email came in at 5:17 p.m. Just over an hour later, Jackson Police dispatch had an update.
They flagged three possible addresses. Two in Brownsville and one in Humboldt. One was vacant and another had already moved. So Humboldt officers checked the last known address.
They learned she no longer lived there but they were provided contact information to try to reach her. Even those methods were a dead end.
“It’s too common,” said Traci Schott, mental health therapist and founder of Feed Your Soul LLC.
Schott says suicidal crises and mental health struggles are especially high among teenagers and young adults. Taking threats seriously can help save a life.
“I believe more people want to judge when they say the words ‘I want to die’ instead of hearing the underlying words ‘help me’,” said Jade Felix, practice manager at Feed Your Soul LLC.
Resources are available for anyone experiencing mental health issues. There are people here for you.
No matter where you live in the U.S., you can easily access 24/7 emotional support through the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline.
Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org/chat to chat with a caring counselor.
