The Lifeline and 988
Too many people are experiencing mental health-related distress or suicidal crises without the support and care they need, and sadly, the pandemic only made a bad situation worse when it comes to mental health and wellness in America.
Now, by dialing 988 everyone will have 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing mental health-related distress. That could be:
- Thoughts of suicide
- Mental health or substance use crisis, or
- Any other kind of emotion 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.
988 serves as a universal entry point so that no matter where you live in the United States, you can reach a trained crisis counselor who can help.
The current Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will always remain available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis.