Sequim School District Benefits Department would like to share some resources for staff to use during a tragedy, violent events, or public health crises. We hope you can find some of these resources helpful and a place to find assistance.
*These organizations are not overseen by the Sequim School District and as a result, the organizations are not subject to the policies and procedures of SQSD.
SmartHealth
SmartHealth is an online wellness program that supports your whole person well-being. It is included in your SEBB benefits at no cost to you. Join activities that support all of you, such as managing stress, building resiliency, and adapting to change.
Learn more about SmartHealth on HCA's website and then visit SmartHealth to get started.
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
On July 16, 2022, you can call, text, or chat 988 to be connected to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL). It will be confidential, free, and available 24/7/365.
Services will be available in Spanish, along with interpretation services in over 250 languages. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, and TTY users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
You can dial 988 if you are having:
- Thoughts of suicide.
- Mental health crises.
- Substance use crises.
- Any other kind of emotional distress.
You can also dial 988 if you are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.
988 will not replace any crisis call centers in Washington state. It is an addition to the state’s network of crisis center providers. The current NSPL number, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), will remain active along with 988.
For questions, please email [email protected].
How is 988 different than 911?
988 was established to improve access to crisis services in a way that meets our country’s growing suicide and mental health-related crisis care needs. 988 will provide easier access to the Lifeline network and related crisis resources, which are distinct from the public safety purposes of 911. 911’s focus is on dispatching Emergency Medical Services (EMS), fire, and police as needed.
If I call 988, will first responders, like police or EMS, be automatically dispatched?
The primary goal of the NSPL is to provide support for people in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress in the moments they most need it, and in a manner which is centered on the person in crisis.
The vast majority of those seeking help from the NSPL do not require any additional interventions at that moment. Currently, fewer than two percent of NSPL calls require emergency services, like 911. While some safety and health issues may warrant a response from law enforcement and/or EMS (namely when a suicide attempt is in progress), the 988 coordinated response is intended to promote stabilization and care in the least restrictive manner.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provide free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Call - 1.800.273.8255
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org
What if someone has a problem with a substance use disorder?
Washington Recovery Help Line: 1-866-789-1511 (24/7)
If you or a family member has a problem with a substance, use disorder, please consider calling the Washington Recovery Help Line. This is an anonymous and confidential help line that provides crisis intervention and referral services for individuals in Washington State. Professionally trained volunteers and staff are available to provide emotional support 24- hours a day, seven days a week. In addition, they can suggest local treatment resources for substance use, problem gambling, and mental health, as well as to other community services.
24/7 Clallam Crisis Support Line
1-888-910-0416
Resources
Here are some resources to use to help discuss tragedy, violent events, or crisis with your family and students. There is no sensible way to put into words senseless acts, but these resources may help you start the conversation.
Access to care has been challenging due to the increased demand related to COVID-19. Please see attached fliers. These NEW and EXPANDED telehealth resources – Doctor on Demand and 98.6. These benefits are available now, and will continue through, at minimum, June 30, 2020.
More telehealth options include the following:
- Telehealth services offered through your provider's office.
- 24-Hour NurseLine – call the number on the back of your member ID card.
- Teladoc is available to provide healthcare by phone, video, or mobile app. Visit teladoc.com/premera or open the Premera app on your mobile device to get started.
All of this information and more is available at www.premera.com. In addition, members can always contact our SEBB Customer Service Team with any questions or concerns at 800.807.7310 (TTY:711), Monday – Friday 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pacific Time.
Wishing you and your employees all the best during these uncertain times, please take care and stay well!
Your Premera Health Team
Dear
School District Personnel –
The
Optum Employee Assistance Program has opened up their services and resources to
the general public, as it relates to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please use the following flyers to assist you and your family through this uncertain time.
Managing Coronavirus Anxiety
Coronavirus Member FAQ
Optum Coping with a Public Health EventOptum Coping with a Public Health Event
We
hope you and your families are staying healthy.
Sincerely,
WEA
Select Service Team