Suicide Prevention & Crisis Services

Established in 1968, the Suicide Prevention Crisis Line, a program of The Effort, is the regional provider of suicide prevention for 32 counties in Northern and Central California. We answer calls 24 hours a day, 365 days a year from those living within the 916, 209, 530, and 707 area codes. We are a network provider for the National Suicide Prevention Crisis Line. The Suicide Prevention Crisis Line receives calls from people of all ages who are experiencing depression, hopelessness, alone, desperate, and sometimes considering suicide as a solution to their pain. We also receive calls that involve emergency rescue, such as a suicide in progress, or someone on the Foresthill Bridge.

Sometimes our callers just need to talk through a situation that seems hopeless. A person does not have to be suicidal to talk with one of our counselors. Many of our callers are third parties who are concerned about a friend or loved one who is suicidal. We are here to listen and understand, and to offer information and resources as needed. The Crisis Lines are staffed by extensively trained, carefully selected volunteers who not only understand how a suicidal person reaches such despair, but also help the individual choose life. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem- in most cases people want to choose life, given an alternative. Suicide Prevention & Crisis Services- your 24 hour resource for suicide prevention and intervention.

• ELIGIBILITY/FEES

  Services are provided free of charge, regardless of race, age, gender, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation. Crisis line services are prioritized according to immediate need.

  Crisis intervention services are provided free of charge. Professional crisis intervention training is available as a fee-based service. Donations are accepted for community outreach and general operating funds. This vital, life-saving program also extends beyond the phone lines to community groups, colleges, high schools and others through presentations and informational outreach.

• STAFF

  Volunteer crisis intervention counselors staff the 24-hour crisis line. Staff is responsible for volunteer recruitment, training, program services, and educational outreach.

• <a href="http://theeffort.org/get_involved/index.html">VOLUNTEERS</a>

  Volunteers are chosen for their sensitivity, maturity, and communication skills. No previous experience in required. Approximately 60 hours of professional training is provided in crisis intervention and communication skills. Ongoing training is provided regularly. Volunteers are asked to contribute a minimum of 200 hours over a one year time period.

  If you wish to become a crisis line volunteer, please call our business office at (916) 368-3118 for the latest training information or visit our Events Calendar for information on upcoming training.

If you or someone you know is in crisis or considering suicide, call us at:

Sacramento (916) 368-3111
Auburn (530) 885-2300
Roseville (916) 733-3111
Lincoln (916) 645-8866
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 or 1-800-SUICIDE

Suicide Prevention & Crisis Services also offers multiple community outreach, education, and awareness presentations to the region upon request. See our webpage on Community Education for more information.

• Suicide & Depression
• Three Stages of a Suicide Crisis
• How can YOU help this person?
• Communication, Outreach, Education & Awareness
• Survivors of Suicide Loss
• "The EFFORT participates in KVIE 6 documentary on Suicide and Depression...."
• Resources
• 24-Hour Parent Support Line

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