Information in this blog post was sourced directly from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
What Happened
In 2020, the U.S. had one death by suicide every 11 minutes. Suicide is a leading cause of death for people aged 10-34 years.
Congress designated the new 988 dialing code to be operated through the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. SAMHSA sees 988 as a first step towards a transformed crisis care system in America.
988 Goes Live on July 16, 2022
When people call, text, or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network. Providing 24/7, free and confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress works. The Lifeline helps thousands of people overcome crisis situations every day.
Learn more about The Lifeline's history by reviewing this PDF provided by samsha.gov.
The Current Lifeline Phone Number Will Remain
Even after 988 is launched, the current lifeline (1-800-273-8255) will remain available for anyone in emotional distress or experiencing a suicidal crisis.
Resources and Getting Help
There are many resources available on samhsa.gov/find-help/988 including more information About 988, 988 Partner Toolkit, and more.
Remember, there is hope. If you need suicide or mental health-related crisis support, or are worried about someone else, please call or text 1-800-273-8255 or visit the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s chat to connect with a trained crisis counselor.