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.
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.