988 is the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (now known as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) and is now active across the United States.

When people call, text, or chat 988, it will connect them to trained counselors that are part of the existing Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary.

Why is this needed?

The primary goal of the new number is to make it easier for people to call for help. Lawmakers and mental health advocates also see this launch as an opportunity to transform the mental health care system and make care easily accessible everywhere in the United States.

NPR.org states, “Currently, the majority of people experiencing a mental health emergency end up dialing 911.

The problem is that 911 wasn’t set up to address mental health needs. Either callers end up in a frenetic emergency room, waiting for hours and sometimes days to get care, or they end up interacting with law enforcement, which can lead to tragedy or trauma.

Mental health advocates hope that 988 will become a widely known, safer and more effective alternative.”

Will This Be Effective?

While this is a positive move in the right direction, correct results require investment at the federal level, at the state level, at the local level, to ensure that this reaches its potential.

Everybody has a role to play in preventing suicide, and the Lifeline has lots of ways you can take part. With your help, we can spread awareness about suicide prevention and mental health, and save lives. Find out how you can support HERE!

If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States! Click HERE for help!

This is great news in addition to the recent announcement that Prince William County will be opening their Crisis Receiving Center in 2023. When asked how this could help several institutions, including the police, Chief Peter Newsham told the PW Perspective, “It’s going to help police officers be able to hand people to professionals who can treat them. I think it’s going to be more efficient and return officers to the streets and that’s that we need in this environment.”