Blog
Lines for Life Responds to Federal Decision to End LGBTQIA+ 988 Line
Portland, Ore. — As a home to Oregonʻs 988 and crisis hotlines for over 30 years, Lines for Life is disappointed and disheartened by the federal government’s decision to discontinue its dedicated line for LGBTQIA+ communities. This change, effective July 17, eliminates a critical resource for these individuals during a time when more support is needed.
BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month: Uplifting Stories and Centering Equity
At Lines for Life, our mission to prevent substance abuse and suicide is rooted in compassion, cultural responsiveness, and a deep commitment to equity. This July, we recognize BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month by reflecting on the unique mental health challenges faced by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color and the importance of creating spaces that honor and uplift their experiences.
When Peers are the Help Needed: How YouthLine is Revolutionizing Mental Health Support for Young People
What if the person most qualified to help a struggling teenager wasn’t a licensed therapist or counselor, but another young person who truly understands what they’re going through? This simple yet powerful idea drives YouthLine, a peer-to-peer crisis and support service that connects youth with trained volunteers their own age.
Equity
Honoring Juneteenth: A Continued Commitment to Black Mental Health
Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas were finally informed of their freedom — two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This day is a powerful reminder of the enduring fight for Black liberation, justice, and...
Suicide Prevention Month
Breaking Barriers: Construction CareLine Offers Lifesaving Support for Oregon’s Construction Workers
Construction workers face dangers every day on the job site, but the most significant threat they encounter isn't from heavy machinery or hazardous materials. Tragically, construction workers are six times more likely to die by suicide than from any workplace accident. This sobering...
Mental Health Awareness Month
Leaders in Construction Industry Announce Comprehensive Plan for Suicide Prevention and Mental Health
For More Information, Contact:Dwight HoltonCEO, Lines for Life503.501.6682LEADERS IN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY ANNOUNCE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION AND MENTAL HEALTHExecutives from Leading General Contractors Commit to PlanPortland, Oregon. Eight of the nation's leading...
Suicide Prevention Month
From Loss to Leadership: Rebuilding Mental Health in Construction Culture
In an industry known for building structures that withstand the elements, the toughest challenges are often the emotional ones. The construction industry faces a hidden crisis claiming more lives than workplace accidents ever could.The Shocking Reality Behind Hard HatsConstruction...
Black History Month
Barbershops Have Long Been Mental Health Havens—Now They’re Expanding Their Support
Barbershops have always been more than just places for a fresh fade or a lineup. For generations, they've served as trusted community spaces—where conversations flow freely, where advice is given, and where people feel safe. Now, in Portland, they're becoming something even more...
Alcohol and Drug Facts
Alcohol? It’s Time to Rethink the Drink
Alcohol consumption is common in celebrations, social gatherings, and even as a way to unwind after a long day. However, many people don't realize the impact of alcohol on mental health, sleep quality, and emotional well-being.Here's a sobering fact: Excessive alcohol use contributes...
Equity
Addressing Mental Health in BIPOC Communities: How Lines for Life is Making a Difference
Breaking Barriers to Mental Health SupportMental health care is essential for everyone, but many Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) face stigma, discrimination, and a lack of culturally responsive support. These barriers often prevent individuals from seeking help.Lines...
Stories of Hope
Mother to Mother: A Lifeline Made of Hope
A Mother in DespairIsabella was thousands of miles away from her children1. Driven to ensure they had food, clothing, and a roof over their head, Isabella left her children with family members in her Latin American home country and immigrated to Oregon for work.The guilt and...
Suicide Prevention Month
Ask, Then Listen: LFL Volunteer Shares Tips for Starting a Conversation
Je has started hundreds of tricky conversations. As a Lines for Life volunteer, she answers calls from people looking for a way through anxiety, stress, loneliness, substance abuse, and thoughts of suicide.During her weekly volunteer shifts, Je listens, validates, and supports...
Service Members and Veterans
PTSD 101 – What it is and How to Support Someone
Our mental wellness is constantly changing. We all deserve support when we need it. Traumatic events impact everyone differently. For some people, the impacts of trauma can develop into Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a diagnosis that is treatable with evidence-based therapies.Despite...
