Starting Saturday, A Mental Health Crisis Number Launches
This is a huge step forward in helping out Americans who are in need. Traditionally, one would have to call 1-800-273-8255 in order to receive help from the National Suicide Prevention…

BERLIN, GERMANY – SEPTEMBER 16: A visitor tries out an Apple iPhone 7 on the first day of sales of the new phone at the Berlin Apple store on September 16, 2016 in Berlin, Germany. The new phone comes in two sizes, one with a 4.7 inch display, the other with a 5.5 inch display. (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images)
This is a huge step forward in helping out Americans who are in need. Traditionally, one would have to call 1-800-273-8255 in order to receive help from the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, which is great of course but is a very long number which can be difficult to remember.
The good news is, come Saturday, July 16th, that is changing for good. The new mental health crisis number "988" launches this Saturday and will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and it is completely anonymous. "988" offers both a call and text feature with trained counselors from the National Suicide Prevention Hotline.

According to the website, 988lifeline.org, this change is going to be very beneficial!
When people call, text, or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary. (From 988lifeline.org)
The good that this service is doing is proven to help, and now it's easier to ask!
The Lifeline’s network of over 200 crisis centers has been in operation since 2005, and has been proven to be effective. It’s the counselors at these local crisis centers who answer the contacts the Lifeline receives every day. Numerous studies have shown that callers feel less suicidal, less depressed, less overwhelmed and more hopeful after speaking with a Lifeline counselor. (From 988lifeline.org)
A little known fact about the hotline is that you are able to call if you believe someone you know or love is struggling with a mental health illness or crisis, it isn't just for the individual that is struggling.
This is all begins on Saturday, July 16th it all changes. Make sure to share this article so that somebody who might need it can see it. "988" will save lives.
Self Care is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body aligned. Check out how "The Andie Summers Show" practices Self Care HERE.
Jeff Kurkjian is the newest member of The Andie Summers Show on 92.5 XTU. You can follow him on Twitter or Instagram to get to know him a bit better!
Jeff is the newest member of The Andie Summers Show! He and his wife moved from Las Vegas to Philly the first week of July. You can follow Jeff on Twitter or Instagram to get an inside on his life OR you can just read these ten fast facts!
1) Jeff Was Raised In Montgomery County, Maryland

Guess which one is Jeff??
Yes, different Montgomery County! Jeff was born in Dallas, Texas (hence the love for country music) but his family quickly relocated to Maryland. A proud graduate of Quince Orchard High School, Jeff grew up in the small town of Darnestown, MD!
2) Jeff JUST Got Married

How beautiful is that bride?
On April 30th, 2022, Jeff and his wife, Emily, tied the knot in Las Vegas!
3) Jeff Has An Amazing Dog!

Look at that FACE!
Pirate just turned 11-years-old, Jeff and Emily rescued him when he was 8-years-old. He's a mix between quite a few breeds including American Staffordshire Terrier, Bulldog and Great Dane!
4) Jeff's Dad Is ESPN's Tim Kurkjian
Baseball fans UNITE! Jeff is part of quite the baseball family.
5) Jeff Rides A Scooter To Work

With gas prices like they are, why not scooter to work?? He lives so close!!!
6) Jeff Graduated From Syracuse University
He studied Broadcast Journalism and Political Science in the snowiest city in America, Syracuse, New York. His older sister, Kelly, also went to Syracuse.
7) Jeff Is An Uncle and Godfather
Jeff's sister had a beautiful baby boy in January of 2021 and she asked him to be the Godfather. Watch the video above by clicking over on the photo, you will cry.
8) Jeff Started An A Cappella Group In College

9) Jeff's First Date With His Wife Was A George Strait Concert
Jeff took Emily (they met on Tinder) on their first date to see The KING of Country Music, George Strait. That had the chance to meet Ashley McBride before the show, she was opening up for him.
10) Jeff Once Rode In A U.S. Navy Blue Angel
Watch the video above!! It was one of the coolest experiences EVER!