ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) — Southwest Georgia counties are recording some of the highest rates of 988 crisis-line use in the state, according to data from the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities.

The state’s preliminary 988 data show Dougherty County has the highest rate of 988 use in Georgia, with Lowndes and Thomas counties also among the state’s highest when compared to population.

The data comes as September, which is recognized nationally as Suicide Prevention Month, comes to an end.

Georgia’s 988 website has previously noted that rural areas of the state account for a higher percentage of crisis calls relative to population.

Anyone experiencing a behavioral health or substance use crisis can call or text 988. The service is available 24/7.

People experiencing an immediate medical, fire or public safety emergency should call 911.

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