988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline goes live tomorrow

Saturday, July 16, the federally mandated 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline will be available to everyone across the United States. Calls to 988 will be routed to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a national network of local crisis centers that provide free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24/7/365.

This new easy to remember 3-digit number will allow quick access to mental health care professionals by calling or texting 988, or by chatting at 988Lifeline.org. Trained 988 counselors will support and connect those who reach out to local resources at times of crisis whether callers are experiencing suicidal thoughts, mental health challenges or substance use issues. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800 number has been used for 17 years and will continue to be available in addition to 988.