Calls to Hawaii's suicide helpline surged 41% after 2021 Lahaina wildfires, study finds.

A spike in calls to Hawaii's suicide helpline after the 2021 Lahaina wildfires highlights the urgent need for more local mental health services. Researchers found that calls to the 988 Lifeline increased by 41% following the disaster, with in-state answer rates dropping significantly. This strain on local resources underscores the need for expanded mental health support and increased call center staffing. The NIH-funded study calls for better crisis care capacity to aid communities affected by climate-related disasters.

November 20, 2024
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