The ability to get immediate support when facing a mental health or substance abuse crisis is about to get a lot easier. Thanks to the dedication of countless mental health professionals and an act of Congress, those in crisis can simply call 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
If you or someone you love is facing a mental health or substance abuse crisis, a quick call to 988 can provide the support and assistance you need.
Keep reading to learn more about the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and its transition to the three-digit 988 number.
What Is the 988 Hotline?
The 988 Hotline is a special three-digit phone number that serves as the national Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Individuals facing any emotional, mental health or substance abuse crisis can call this number to be immediately connected to a trained professional.
If you’re facing a crisis, these trained counselors can provide much-needed support and connect you to local resources when necessary. Studies show that 98% of calls to 988 are handled without the need to involve 911 services. However, when necessary, counselors can request medical help.
The 988 hotline is funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and managed by Vibrant Emotional Health. Organizers work with over 200 private and state-funded crisis centers around the world to provide localized services.
History of the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline was launched in 2005 with the hotline number (800) 273-8255. During its first year of service, the hotline received over 46,000 calls. Over time, the hotline added numerous services, such as Spanish-speaking services, a veterans crisis line, and chat and texting capabilities.
In 2018, a push for transitioning to a three-digit number began. Two years later, the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020 required the FCC and phone service providers to designate 988 as the official crisis and suicide lifeline number by July 16, 2022.
In 2023, the hotline added specialized services for LGBTQI+ youth under the age of 25. During the year, the hotline received more than 5 million calls.
Transition to 988
Most people living in the United States now have access to the 988 hotline. However, SAMHSA states that the original (800) 273-8255 phone number will continue to work for the foreseeable future. When facing a crisis, you or your loved one can use either number to get the supportive services you need.
What Happens When You Call 988?
If you or a loved one is facing an emotional, mental health or substance abuse crisis, you don’t have to handle it alone. Trained counselors are waiting 24-7-365 to help you work through the crisis and obtain additional support, if necessary.
You can simply call or text 988 or use 988lifeline.org/chat if you prefer to chat with a counselor.
When calling, you have several options. You can press 1 for the Veteran Crisis Helpline, which is specifically designed for active military members, veterans and their family members. You can press 2 for support services in Spanish or press 3 if you’re an LGBTQI+ youth under the age of 25.
Calls automatically route to one of over 200 crisis centers based on your area code. If the closest crisis center is busy, your call may go to the national crisis center.
Once connected, the trained counselor will immediately begin talking to you and providing support. The counselor only has access to your phone number and the personal information you choose to provide. This gives you a safe space to discuss what you’re feeling about your crisis situation.
Your counselor may help you try various coping skills to work through the crisis. They may also provide you with information and referrals to various mental health and substance abuse resources in your specific community, such as support groups or counseling services.
The counselor will assess your risk level and determine if you need immediate support. If you’re also experiencing a medical emergency, the counselor may request an ambulance or other type of support to your location.
When to Call 988
Trained crisis counselors are available anytime of the night or day, including holidays. The crisis lifeline isn’t only for those feeling suicidal. It’s for anyone struggling with a mental health or substance abuse crisis.
No matter what you’re facing, how old you are or where you live, if you need immediate support, don’t hesitate to call 988.
Get the help you need now. Call or text 988 anytime.