In the past year, there were 361 calls from Trumbull residents to state Suicide and Mental Health Crisis Lines. A group of Trumbull students wants anyone struggling with suicide and mental health challenges to know they are not alone – and that help is available.
Youth Advocating for Youth (YAY), a group of Trumbull high school students who meet regularly with First Selectman Vicki Tesoro, works to raise awareness around mental health resources in both schools and the community. “YAY strives to create a community that supports people in any mental or emotional troubles they may be facing,” stated Andria Gerold, Trumbull High junior.
This month, members of YAY are promoting 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline during Mental Health Awareness Month. Residents of any age who may be struggling with suicide or any mental health challenge can call, text, or chat 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. 988 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Yellow pinwheels will be placed at Town Hall to represent the 361 calls from Trumbull to crisis lines, and lawn signs promoting the 988 Crisis Lifeline will be installed across town.
Bella Cabral, Trumbull High junior elaborated, “I hope we can normalize the conversation around mental health and show our community that asking for help is extremely important.”
Vicki Tesoro, First Selectman, explained her support, “No Trumbull resident should suffer alone. I am proud to work alongside our YAY students to break down the stigma and promote the help that is available. 988 saves lives.”
TPAUD, Trumbull’s Prevention Partnership and My Friend Abby, a local non-profit organization that focuses on peer-led projects that improve mental health, are also sponsoring this effort to raise awareness of local mental health crisis resources.
About TPAUD, Trumbull’s Prevention Partnership: TPAUD, Trumbull's Prevention Partnership is a community coalition dedicated to engaging and mobilizing youth, parents and guardians, and community partners to prevent youth alcohol and drug use, promote mental wellness, and build a safe and healthy community.
Visit tpaud.org
About My Friend Abby: My Friend Abby, Inc is a non-profit organization whose mission is to create peer-to-peer connections that improve mental and emotional health.
Visit myfriendabby.org