01/09/2026
The 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline offers skilled, compassionate help for mental health and substance use problems for anyone at any time.
Text 988 / Call 988 / Chat 988lifeline.org
For The Native and Strong Lifeline, choose option 4 when you call or text N8V to 988.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
☎️ Is 988 only for su***de-related crises? No. In addition to thoughts or feelings of su***de, 988 responds 24/7 to calls, chats, or texts from anyone who needs support for mental health, su***de, and/or substance use problems. Other reasons include emotional distress, anxiety, depression, mental illness, loneliness, trauma, bullying, stress, relationship troubles, and just needing someone to talk with.
☎️ If I contact 988, will police or emergency services show up? 988 counselors work to keep you safe and provide support in the least restrictive manner possible. For most people, a counselor is able to work with you on the call, text, or chat to de-escalate your situation. If there is an immediate physical safety threat, the 988 counselor will contact 911 to help.
☎️ Can I call 988 for or about someone else? Yes, 988 crisis counselors provide caring support and resources for family, friends, caregivers, and advocates who reach out about another person they are concerned about.
☎️ Does contacting 988 really help? Yes, numerous studies have shown that most people who contact 988 are significantly more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking to a 988 crisis counselor.
• To reach the Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1
• To reach Spanish-speaking counselors: Call 988 and press 2, text “AYUDA” to 988, or chat linea988.org
• To reach a counselor in ASL: Videophone (VP) or text 988, or chat 988Lifeline.org