This line was created as a result of the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act, which Congress passed in 2020. 988 is a nationally available suicide and crisis hotline accessed by dialing the three-digit code 988. Available 24/7 for anyone who is suicidal or experiencing a mental health or substance use-related crisis, 988 connects callers with the same trained crisis counselors as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline that has existed since 2005. The existing Lifeline network includes about 200 local, independent crisis centers nationally and local call centers funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Substance Abuse Administration.
To learn about what happens when you call, text, or chat with the Lifeline, click here.