JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – For more than 50 years, FirstLink has provided their free confidential service available to anyone who needs it.

The service provides listening and support, referrals to resources and help, and crisis intervention. They answer the 211 helpline, which is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and communicates via the text line 898-211.

Jennifer Illich, Director of Helpline Operations, says they provide more than 5,000 resources for those who need them.

They also work in collaboration with the Suicide Prevention Helpline at 800-273-8255(TALK).

Illich says they have mobile crisis units available all over North Dakota and parts of Minnesota.

Executive Director Cindy Miller added that they also provide telehealth visits for those who may be in more rural areas.

Miller says last year, FirstLink received more than 71,000 calls and texts for their service. But just having a real person to talk to makes a big difference.

Miller added that FirstLink service is not just for those who may be directly affected, pointing out that those looking for ways they can help someone they know are more than welcome to connect with them.

FirstLink operates with the state of North Dakota to dispatch the Community Chaplain Program, which operates through the North Dakota Department of Health. This allows for collaborations such as Community Chaplains, who have received crisis intervention training to provide emotional support, spiritual counsel, education, and behavioral health screening.

Miller says when it comes to helping those who may be struggling, ask them how they’re doing. Sometimes that’s all that’s needed.

Illich added that training and materials are also available on their website.

All of this information is available by dialing 211. If you or someone you know is struggling, you can also call 800-273-8255(TALK). All calls are kept confidential.

You can visit myfirstlink.org for more information.

Listen to a full Let’s Talk About It with Cindy Miller and Jennifer Illich below: