There's a new effort to combat death by suicide among veterans and other people associated with the military.

988 is the new national hotline for people in mental health crises. Today, we heard how this new number helps Illinois residents. 

Connersville, Indiana once was bustling with factories that served the auto industry. Workers turned out air conditioning systems, fuel injectors and other products. Now, it has a grim distinction: the highest suicide and overdose death rates in the state.

On this sweltering summer day, only a few people walk by Mousie’s restaurant. The building’s blue facade stands out next to its neutral surroundings. In one of its circular windows, there’s a neon ‘open’ sign that’s turned off. 

Champaign resident Kim Bryan lost her 19-year-old son to suicide in 2016. His death led her to found the nonprofit Rattle The Stars, which provides suicide prevention training across the Champaign-Urbana area.