DIAL 988

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has recently announced its new designated three-digit dialing code number ‘988’.

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. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary. Lifeline’s network of over 200 crisis centers has been in operation since 2005 and has been proven to be effective.

The current Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will always remain available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis, even after 988 is launched nationally.