When you were little, the adults in your life probably encouraged you to learn two phone numbers: your home phone and 911. Now, there’s a third, extra-easy number to add to the rotation. Just like you dial 911 for physical emergencies like a fire, you can now use a three-digit number to get care in a mental health crisis. As of July 2022, all you need to do is dial 988 to reach the suicide and crisis line.
Learn this number: 988
If there’s any one thing you’re going to learn in the coming weeks, let it be this number. 988 is the new, nationwide number for the mental health crisis and suicide line. That means that instead of dialing 911 in a critical situation, which would bring in law enforcement with limited mental health training, you can now connect directly with specialists in crisis care.
The people answering the phone aren’t new to the game. This hotline has long been around. It just used to be reachable at (800) 273-8255. While useful, that number isn’t particularly memorable. So the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) got involved and brought a proposal to Congress. In 2020, Congress passed the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020. At that point, a two-year transition began. On July 16, 2022, that process culminated in the nationwide rollout of the new 988 number.
Extra care for military members and veterans
The new 988 number can also help people currently serving in the military and veterans connect to support tailored just for them. If that applies to you, dial “1” after dialing 988 to get connected to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline.
Using 988 for yourself and others
988 can be helpful in two ways. First, you can use it for yourself. If you’re ever facing a heavy metal health situation — especially if you’re thinking about harming yourself — dial them up. The caring, trained team at the other end of that line will be ready to help you.
Secondly, you can use 988 to help others. If you ever see someone in a mental health crisis, call this number. Whether you get help for your best friend or a stranger on the street, you’re connecting someone in need to someone trained to help them.
Ultimately, 988 has the potential to be a game-changer. Whenever you urgently need mental health help, you just need to dial these three digits.
Also, don’t forget that we’re here. Our team of therapists serves all of Ventura County and beyond. 988 can be there when you need crisis care. Ideally, though, you can get mental health care before you reach a crisis moment. To find out if therapy could be right for you, contact us.
