Three numbers can save a life

 
 
 

Winter in Michigan can be tough. Shorter days and cold weather may keep us indoors and alone more often.  During this time of year, people may find themselves struggling with feelings of loneliness and depression, and in some cases substance use and/or thoughts of suicide. 

If this sounds like you or someone you care about, know that there is help. Three numbers could help save a life.

Make the right call at the right time:

9-1-1

For an emergency
Call 911 when someone is in immediate danger: if they are unconscious, hurting themselves, or overdosing.

If you suspect an overdose and have naloxone (Narcan), use it first. Then call 911 and stay with the person.

9-8-8

For mental health and/or suicide crisis
Call or text 988 — the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — when you or someone you know is in emotional pain, thinking about suicide, or struggling with drug or alcohol use.

You can also chat online at 988lifeline.org

It is free, private, and available any time--day or night.

2-1-1

For help finding resources

Not in crisis, but need support?  Call or text 211.

A real person will help connect you with a variety of resources such as housing & utilities, food & meals, health & wellness, and more.

You can connect with the Mental Health Navigator to find a counselor or therapist near you.

“Suicide and drug overdose deaths are not inevitable; they are preventable with evidence-based strategies that shape successful outcomes such as increased access to support services, harm reduction tools, and treatment.” -  Dr. Catherine Bodnar, Medical Director, Midland County Department of Public Health

How to spot the warning signs:

Suicide and overdose is preventable. If you know what to look for, you could help save a life.

Someone may be thinking about suicide if they:

  • Talk about wanting to die, look up ways to die, or feel like a burden to others

  • Feel empty, hopeless, trapped, or like they have no reason to live

  • Pull away from friends and family, or say goodbye

  • Give away things that matter to them

  • Have big mood swings, or suddenly seem very calm after being very sad

  • Use alcohol or drugs more than usual

If you see these warning signs — especially if they are new or getting worse — do not wait. Ask them directly if they are thinking about suicide. Listen. Then call 911 or 988 based on how urgent the situation seems.

What to do for an opioid overdose:

Naloxone — commonly known by the brand name Narcan — can reverse an opioid overdose. It is free in Midland County and easy to use. Keep it on hand, as you would first aid supplies.

Signs of an opioid overdose:

•      Very small pupils, won't wake up, body is limp

•      Slow, faint, or no breathing — or gurgling sounds

•      Blue lips or fingernails, skin feels cold and damp

If you think someone is overdosing: give naloxone, call 911, and stay with them.

Free naloxone is available throughout Midland County in harm reduction stations and from organizations like the Midland County Department of Public Health:

If you plan to use drugs alone, call Never Use Alone at 1-877-696-1996. Tell them where you are. If you stop responding, they will send help. For more information visit: NeverUseAlone.com.

Another resource for individuals struggling with substance use disorder is the Face Addiction Now (FAN) Hope Line: 1-833-202-HOPE (4673).

Harm Reduction Resources:

Within Midland County, Harm Reduction Michigan and the Midland County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) offer harm reduction supply services.

  • Harm Reduction Michigan: 805 Townsend St.

    • Open Wednesday 12pm-8pm and Thursday 8am-12pm

  • MCDPH: 220 W. Ellsworth St., second floor, room 231

    • Open Monday –Friday 8am-12pm & 1pm-5pm

Lock up guns:

Guns are the most deadly method of suicide. When someone is in crisis, getting the gun out of reach can save their life. Free cable style gun locks are available at the:

  • Midland County Department of Public Health (220 W. Ellsworth St., 2nd floor, Mon–Fri 8am–5pm) and the

  • Midland Law Enforcement Center (2727 Rodd St.).

Michigan law (Public Act 17 of 2023) also says guns must be stored unloaded and locked if a child could be in the home.

The mission of the Midland County Department of Public Health is to promote and protect the public’s health through health promotion and disease prevention.  Our vision is that Midland County will be a place where every person has a high-quality life and well-being. 

You can contact the MCDPH by phone at 989-832-6380.  We invite community members to follow us on Facebook and visit our website: https://midlandcountymi.gov/health for ongoing public health information.

 
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