On July 16, 2022, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) officially transitioned to the phone number 988. Moving to a 3-digit code will transform the way Americans reach out for mental health help and support. The FCC selected the 988 number to elevate the awareness for mental health crisis response to the same level as calling 911 for other emergencies. It’s anticipated that 911 and 988 will quickly become the two most recognized and important phone numbers.

Of course, 988 is more than just an easy to remember number, it’s a direct connection to compassionate and professional support for anyone who might be struggling with emotional distress, experiencing suicidal thoughts, or who is concerned about a family or friend with a mental health or substance use issue.

988 is a direct 3-digit line to trained counselors who will open the door to millions of Americans to seek the help they need, while sending the message that healing, hope and help is available 24/7 every day.

The 988 crisis line:

- Connects a person in a mental health crisis to a trained counselor who can address their immediate needs and help connect them to ongoing care.

- Reduces use of law enforcement, public health and public safety.

- Meets the growing need for crisis response systems.

- Helps end the stigma toward those seeking or accessing mental health care.

- 988 is answered by the Helpline Center and is staffed by individuals with advanced degrees and experience in behavioral health.
- We provide follow-up calls to individuals including, follow-up calls for mobile crisis team referrals, discharges from stabilization units and appropriate regional facilities.
- Partner with 911 PSAP’s, psychiatric inpatient units, stabilization units and appropriate regional facilities.
- Text and chat services are offered through 988.
- There are national, statewide and local marketing campaigns promoting 988. If you're interested in promotional materials, click on this request form link.
- The big part of the continued success of 988 will be the partnerships and collaboration with all services on the crisis continuum.

988 and 211 are answered by Helpline Center staff. Individuals can connect with either number, and the reasons for calling either number vary by need. To learn more about the various ways we can help, click on the image below.