Summer Edition

August 2022 • Volume I

The Horizon

New "988" Helpline for Mental Health Emergencies

A new helpline for mental health emergencies – “988” (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) – was recently launched across the United States on July 16, 2022. 988 offers 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing suicidal, substance use and other mental health crises. On July 16, 2022, the country transitioned to using the 988 dialing code, and it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to strengthen and expand the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and change how crisis services are delivered nationwide.

The 988 number will forward callers to one of 200 state and local call centers funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and administered by Vibrant Emotional Health. This three-digit number will take the place of the preexisting 800 number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL). People will still be able to reach it through that number.

To reach the Lifeline, people can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.

988 services are distinct and separate from the emergency medical and public safety response associated with 911. When someone calls 988, they will be in direct contact with crisis counselors who are trained to use the least invasive interventions, when possible, and often the call, text, or chat itself is the only intervention needed. However, ongoing coordination — at the federal, state, and local levels — between 988 and 911 will help individuals in crisis get the appropriate support they need, such as deploying mobile crisis teams or social workers in place of police or EMS responders, when needed and where available.

988 is more than just an easy-to-remember number — it is a direct connection to compassionate, accessible care and support for anyone experiencing mental health related distress — whether that is thoughts of suicide, symptoms of mental illness or substance use disorder, or other factors. People can also dial 988 if they are worried about a loved one who may need these types of crisis supports.

One goal of the new hotline is to reduce interactions between those experiencing a mental health crisis and police, who often are dispatched to handle such situations. A study this year by the Vera Institute of Justice examined 911 calls in nine U.S. cities, including Tucson, and found about 19% involved behavioral health situations.

988 is the new National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number. The Lifeline accepts both calls and texts, with language translation services available over the phone. If you or a loved one is struggling and in need of crisis support, please reach out!

Click here for detailed information about the 988 hotline. Click here for information about Horizon’s Crisis Services. For questions or comments, contact Maria Johnson at Maria.johnson@hhwaz.org.