Mental Health and 988: All about the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Diana VazquezShare
Mental Health has become a priority for everyone in the recent years and now 9-8-8 has become the official code for you to ask for help over the phone in case you or someone you care about requires emotional attention or is experiencing a suicidal crisis.
It's a simple three-digit code, in the spirit of 9-1-1, but unlike the usual emergency number, 988 is specifically connected to a network of over 200 crisis centers across the U.S. where trained call and message takers provide free, confidential emotional support to all people.
Despite what its name may suggest, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is NOT only for those in a suicidal state, and is open for everyone in need for compassionate, non-judgmental mental health assitance.
The 988 Lifeline is available 24/7, 365 days a year.
Since its creation in 2005 (and up to 2021), the service —previously known as National Suicide Prevention Lifeline— has received 23,044,100 calls from people in distress looking for support.
988 is a key Mental Health Care service for America, since according to the 988lifeline.org website:
- Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among young people.
- For every one person who dies by suicide each year, other 316 people consider suicide, but do not kill themselves.
- The annual number of victims of suicide in the U.S. surpasses the number of people who die due to car accidents, homicide and AIDS.
Everyone can access 988, be it through call, text or chat. In most cases, just reaching for help becomes a life-changing intervention. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 80% of crises are resolved on the phone in communities that have robust crisis services.
However, despite a 45% increase in 988 contacts during 2022 (compared to the previous year), the funding for the lifeline is still a main concern for its advocates. 988 marks four main actions for everyone to get involved in Suicide Prevention:
Resources that allow you to offer support and understanding can make a difference for you or a loved one.
As the whole 988 network relies on the work of local Lifeline Centers, look for ways to push for more funds for them in your state.
Sharing info about 988 raises awareness about its compassionate 24/7 services. Remember they all are free and confidential.
If you are a part of a local crisis center, learn how to join the 988 Lifeline's national network to expand its coverage.
988 is more than just a number, it's an open and clear message for those who seek support: YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Don't be afraid and don't hesitate to call or text 9-8-8 whenever and wherever you need it.