988 Mental Health Crisis Line
The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline- 988 is now 2 years old. This 3-digit number replaced the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK). Over the past 2 years, this initiative of the Biden Administration has received over 5 million calls. Once someone calls 988, they have options to choose from, such as an option for veterans and another for LGBTQ youth. 988 can be called, texted to or accessed online. There is a bilingual option in Spanish and TTY for people with hearing issues. This number is designed to help:
Anyone experiencing mental health-related distress
Anyone concerned a loved one may need crisis support
Despite the overwhelming response that 988 has achieved, there is a barrier- not enough people know about it. NAMI reports that 4 in 5 adults do not know about 988. Early prevention is a key, perhaps the most important key, to mental health recovery. This line is prevention oriented. We need to be doing our part as community mental health providers to promote awareness of 988. If you or someone you know needs support now, call or text 988 or Chat988LifeLine.org. There is hope.
