988 LifeLine

988 Lifeline

Please, call or text 988 if you are having suicidal thoughts, in crisis, or just need to talk to somebody- about anything. The trained staff at the 988 Lifeline are there for YOU. First you will be met by an automated system to select your service options- giving you a few choices like to continue in English, Spanish, connect to a Veteran crisis line, or connect with specially trained LGBTQIA+ counslers. Next, you will be greeted by a crisis counselor. Sometimes there are brief holds as they try to connect you with someone in your state. If you need to talk for longer, warmlines can be a great option. 

Scared to call?

  • Numerous studies have shown that callers feel less suicidal, less depressed, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking with a 988 Lifeline crisis counselor. 

  • Fear of the police can be scary, however less than 3% of calls ever actually require police intervention, and they receive over 2.6 million calls every year.

  • They will ask you screening questions throughout the call to assess the risk you are to yourself. They are there to help you for any situation, they can connect you to resources in your area, and answer any questions you may have. You may ask to be connected to another counselor as well if you do not feel it is a right fit.

FACTS

  • The 988 Lifeline is a nationwide number in the US designated for mental health, substance use, and suicidal crises. It was established to provide an easy to remember three digit number for anyone in need of immediate help during a mental health crisis.

  • The 988 Life Line is available 24/7 and provides free, confidential support. This service is accessible by phone, text, or chat, making it widely accessible for individuals in different situations and with varying communication styles.

  • The 988 number was officially launched on July 16,2022, as part of a broader effort to improve the U.S. mental health crisis response system. 988 aims tor reduce the weight on emergency services like 911 and provide more specialized care for mental health emergencies. Early reports indicate that the implementation of 988 has led to increased calls for help, highlighting its necessity and effectiveness in providing immediate mental health support.

Visit 988lifeline.org to learn more.