Federal data show that “the suicide rate among Black youth ages 10 to 19 surpassed that of their White peers for the first time in 2022, increasing 54% since 2018, compared to a 17% decrease for White youth.” Organizations such as Vibrant Emotional Health are working to counter this increase, providing support to individuals and their families.
A non-profit located in New York City, Vibrant serves as the administrator of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. In this role, the organization manages the technical infrastructure of the 988 Lifeline and raises public awareness around suicide and mental health issues. Vibrant develops tools that enable people at risk for suicide to stay safe. The organization also regularly evaluates calls, texts and chats to the 988 Lifeline, while creating resources and communications to reach high-risk individuals.
According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), “Structural factors reinforce racism and discrimination and elevate exposure to potentially traumatic events. These experiences exacerbate risk for mental health concerns and suicide among Black youth who are also more likely to experience punitive treatment in the educational and juvenile justice systems.”
Johnell Lawrence, Director of Equity and Belonging at Vibrant
One of Vibrant’s more recent initiatives focuses on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). According to Johnell Lawrence, Director of Equity and Belonging at Vibrant, “The 988 Lifeline is transforming mental health support for Black college students and HBCUs. Through deep engagement with HBCUs, we’re understanding the unique barriers and needs of this community, tailoring our services accordingly.”
This year, Vibrant partnered with Howard University, located in Washington, D.C, for their 2024 Springfest and Fashion Show to expand awareness of the 988 Lifeline among Black young adults. The Fashion Show included a modeling contest, fashion demonstration, a filmmaker contest making 988 Lifeline promotional videos, and a contest to create ready-to-wear items out of 988 T-shirts. This opportunity showcased how Vibrant and the 988 Lifeline work to support Black students.
Vibrant also facilitates the 988 Lifeline LGBTQI+ Subnetwork youth advisory group. According to Lawrence, “This initiative ensures that the Subnetwork is built for and by LGBTQI+ youth who help pioneer best practices and needs within the community.” According a 2023 survey by The Trevor Project, 18% of LGBTQ youth have attempted suicide, which is a rate that is twice that of teenagers overall. This higher rate is the result of stress, bullying, and parental disapproval. African American LGBTQI youth have higher suicide rates than their white counterparts.
The rising suicide rates among Black youth and the disproportionate impact on LGBTQI+ individuals underscore the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support. Vibrant Emotional Health’s efforts through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, their collaborations with HBCUs, and the creation of the LGBTQI+Subnetwork, highlight the importance of tailored interventions that consider the unique challenges faced by these communities.
Moreover, by continuously evaluating their services and engaging directly with those at risk, Vibrant is making great strides in addressing mental heal disparities. As we look to the future, organizations such as Vibrant will be crucial in fostering a society where people — regardless of race or sexuality — have access to the mental health support they need.