On Saturday, July 16, 2022 the new mental health hotline number, referred to as the 988 suicide and crisis hotline will be put into action. Anyone in the United States can text or call 988 and a trained counselor will help them through a mental health emergency. The current lifeline number, 1-800-273-TALK still works, this new 3-digit number was created to provide an easier way to receive emergency care and reach additional resources of mental health professionals as well as substance abuse treatment.
This service provides a confidential and anonymous way for people to get help and support for mental health emergencies. It is staffed by trained counselors who can provide around the clock guidance and support. The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is free to call. If for some reason you are not picked up locally, then national backup can step in and pick up the call.
This new 3-digit hotline can be seen as another step in our fight against mental illnesses. The hope lies in greater recognition and funding for the effort. As the number of individuals in crisis continues to increase, promoting this asset is important now more than ever. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please do not hesitate to call or text the hotline. It could be the first step on the road to recovery. Individuals deserve better and faster responses when they’re struggling – we hope this new awareness will lead us down an informed path towards solutions.
