Ventura County Behavioral Health (VCBH), a department of the Ventura County Health Care Agency (HCA), will join communities nationwide in recognizing the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) second annual “988 Day” on Monday, September 8, 2025. This year’s theme is Compassionate Help. Anytime.
988 Day raises awareness about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, emphasizing that suicide is preventable and that compassionate support is available anytime, anywhere. The Lifeline provides free, 24/7 access to skilled, caring, and trained counselors by text, chat, or phone call.
In Ventura County, participation in 988 Day aligns with broader September Suicide Prevention Month initiatives:
- Saturday, September 20: VCBH team members will walk alongside community partners in the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Community Walk. Event information and registration: https://afsp.org/vc.
- Tuesday, September 30: VCBH will host the 10th Annual Suicide Prevention Symposium: Never a Bother—Because Together We Can Make a Difference. Registration and details will be available on Eventbrite. Event information and registration: https://HopeVC25.eventbrite.com
VCBH remains committed to providing resources for suicide prevention and support for those affected by suicide loss. Community members can:
- Explore local prevention resources and watch STAY suicide prevention videos
- Review the VCBH Suicide Prevention Strategic Plan
- Register for a free 1-hour suicide prevention training
- Join the VCBH Suicide Prevention Council
Learn more at: https://www.wellnesseveryday.org/
September is Suicide Prevention Month: Hope Lives Here in Ventura
