According to recent data from earlier this year, Pierce County had lower engagement rates with the decicated 988 suicide and mental health crisis hotline than neighboring Ware County.
As students return to the classroom, the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) encourages families to make mental health a priority, especially in rural communities where stigma often delays support.
According to a recent DBHDD communication, many rural counties tend to reach out to 988 at relatively high rates, but Pierce County stands out for its lower utilization of the service.
From January to May 2025, Pierce County experienced lower engagement with 988 compared to other rural counties in Georgia, particularly neighboring Ware County, which has one of the highest crisis episode rates in the state.
However, some say this raises concerns that stigma surrounding mental health and helpseeking may be a barrier in the area.
DBHDD also encourages both local leaders and residents to normalize conversations about mental health and make it clear that 988 is a safe, judgment-free resource for anyone in crisis. Help is always available through 988, the free, confidential, 24/7 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline that connects Georgians to trained crisis counselors.
