Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW

Director, DMH/DD/SUS

Special Edition Hot Topics

Celebrating Deaf Awareness Month and

Two Years of ASL Access in 988

Last month, we proudly celebrated Deaf Awareness Month and marked the second anniversary of American Sign Language (ASL) services being integrated into the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. This milestone reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring that Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals across North Carolina have access to the mental health and substance use services they need.

Since 988 ASL Suicide & Crisis Lifeline was launched in September of 2023, the 988 ASL line has received over 48,000 video calls nationwide. The service allows Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals to connect with trained crisis counselors via videophone by clicking the "Deaf/HOH" button on the 988 Lifeline website or by dialing 988 directly into their videophone for assistance.

Supporting the Community Statewide


The North Carolina Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services provides funding and oversight for specialized outpatient services tailored to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.


These services are available statewide and can be accessed through:



Services That Understand Your Needs


All services are delivered by culturally competent clinicians and outreach specialists who are fluent in ASL and trained to meet the unique communication needs of individuals with hearing loss. Whether it’s crisis support or ongoing care, help is available in a way that respects and understands your experience.


Resources


The Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DSDHH) offers a wealth of resources through seven Regional Centers across the state. These centers provide:


  • Advocacy and education
  • Training and community outreach
  • Support for individuals, families, medical providers, and agencies


They also offer brochures and fact sheets on topics like:



Need a Sign Language Interpreter?


DSDHH provides guidance on how to find and request a qualified Sign Language Interpreter in North Carolina. Interpreters play a vital role in communication—not just for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals, but also for hearing individuals who need to communicate with them. To learn more about the role of interpreters, review the Standard Practice Paper available on the DSDHH website.


Should you have any questions about services or resources, please contact Dara Baril, DMH/DD/SUS Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program Lead.

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