The federal government has established the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for those going through a mental health crisis, suicidal crisis or substance use issue.

Dialing 988 will connect the caller with a network of more than 200 trained mental health professionals, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This service is free and confidential.

The 988 service was launched in July 2022, a step in transforming the crisis care system in the country. It operates through what was formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. 988 offers round-the-clock access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing mental health-related distress, including:

• Thoughts of suicide
• Mental health or substance use crisis, or
• Any emotional distress

 

People can call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for themselves or if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

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 starting on July 16, 2022. The previous 1-800-273-8255 number will continue to function even after the transition.