By Sophia Cossette
oregonlive.com
SEATTLE — Prisoners in Washington can now dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline from phones and tablets inside all state prison facilities.
The Washington Department of Corrections said Monday that access to the hotline will connect prisoners with around-the-clock mental health counselors to support anyone having thoughts of suicide, mental health crises, emotional distress or substance use concerns.
“Every death by suicide in one of our prisons is a tragedy. This milestone reflects our commitment to improving mental health support for incarcerated individuals and reducing suicide risk across our system,” Washington DOC Secretary Tim Lang said in a statement.
Oregon inmates do not have access to the suicide prevention hotline, according to the Oregon Department of Corrections.
Department spokesperson Amber Campbell says Oregon DOC “is exploring the potential implementation of 988 services for our adult in-custody population and we support the concept.”
Two of the top causes of unexpected deaths in prisons are overdoses and suicides.
The Washington DOC will continue to encourage prisoners to use the state correctional facilities’ mental health services, but the 988 Lifeline can be used for intermittent support.
The Washington Department of Corrections and Washington Department of Health will monitor call volumes from state prisons to the hotline, and 988 counselors will be specially trained on how to handle calls from prisons.
In 2023, Washington inmates were given tablets that allow them to make phone calls, exchange emails, receive VideoGrams and purchase media and entertainment services. Each prisoner receives two free 20-minute calls per week, four free 30-minute video visits per month, and 55 free stamps for emails per month, according to the Washington DOC.
In Oregon, the state department of corrections said last month that inmates soon will be granted tablet access, with the devices planned to be delivered to prisons in the fall.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, call or text 988, or visit the 988 Lifeline website
Suicide and crisis lifeline: 988 Alcohol and drug hotline: 800-923-4357 Teen-to-teen crisis and help: 877-968-8491, or text teen2teen to 839863
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