The Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness is starting a campaign called STAY designed to raise suicide awareness.

The timing for launching the STAY campaign during the holidays is intentional. While for many community members, the season is seen as the most wonderful time of the year, for others it can be an especially lonely and difficult time, the Department of Behavioral Wellness said.

The U.S. surgeon general recently issued a 5-for-5 connection challenge. Recognizing the significant challenges that loneliness, social isolation, and mental health pose to Americans, it is important to start making connections.

There are a variety ways to connect with others, but the act of simply reaching out to and engaging with others is key.

The surgeon general’s report offers strategies such as gratitude awareness (reaching out to someone to thank them); joining a group activity; calling someone you haven’t talked to in a while; limiting screen time; and asking for help when needed.

The STAY campaign aims to educate the community on suicide awareness, including the signs and symptoms seen in someone who may be thinking about suicide.

STAY also urges those who are feeling alone and struggling to find what and who matter; to get help and support; and to STAY a little longer.

“It is okay to not be okay, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness,” the Department of Behavioral Wellness said.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for support. For assistance accessing Behavioral Wellness services, call the 24/7 Behavioral Wellness Access Line, 888-868-1649, or call or text 988.

Learn more about Santa Barbara County Department of Behavioral Wellness, visit https://www.countyofsb.org/274/Behavioral-Wellness.