On July 16th, the new Mental Health Crisis Dialing Code: 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline was launched nationwide. The 988 code is like dialing 911 for medical emergencies, where people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis can call or text 988 and be connected immediately to trained counselors who will listen, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary.
The three-digit dialing code (988) is new, but the Lifeline is not. Previously known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, callers only reached the 24/7 national crisis hotline by dialing 1-800-273-8255 (TALK). The easy-to-remember dialing code (988) is meant to replace that number; however, callers will still be connected to the same services, regardless of which number is used. The Lifeline provides services in both English and Spanish.
The 988 expansion will also address the need for ease of access for military veterans, service members and their families in times of crisis. Veterans can use this new option by dialing 988 and then pressing 1 to contact the Veterans Crisis Line.
988 Fast Facts:
• 988 is confidential, free, and available 24/7/365, connecting those experiencing a mental health, substance use, or suicidal crisis with trained crisis counselors.
• Access is available through every land line, cell phone, and voice-over internet device in the United States and call services are available in Spanish, along with interpretation services in over 150 languages.
• The 988-dialing code is available for call, text, and chat as of July 16, 2022. The previous 1-800-273-8255 number will continue to function even after the transition.
• More information and suicide prevention resources can be found at 988lifeline.org.
Original source can be found here.
Alerts Sign-up