We hosted Nancy Lublin, the founder of Crisis Text Line, who shared her organization’s story about using data and technology to help individuals in crisis. Crisis Text Line is the world’s largest mental health database and its crisis intervention volunteers are assisted by an algorithm able to gauge the texter’s true level of need. For example, if a texter names any over-the-counter pain relief pill, they are 16 times more likely to attempt suicide than a texter who uses the word “suicide.” We are in discussions with Nancy to establish a keyword for our region that will allow us to get data dashboards about the issues and frequency our residents text for help. Leaders at Sarasota County Schools are ramping up efforts to make teens more aware of this life-saving resource. Thanks to Nancy, we will all be smarter about how we do our work. Go here to see a photos from the event.
