What is 988?

On July 16, 2022, the U.S. will transition to using the 988-dialing code to access the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK), and it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to strengthen and expand the existing Lifeline.

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

988 in the Future

In the longer term, the 988 vision is to build a robust crisis care response system across the country that links callers to community-based providers who can deliver a full range of crisis care services, if needed (like mobile crisis teams or stabilization centers). This more robust system will be essential to meeting crisis care needs across the nation. We envision a day when everyone across our country has someone to call, someone to respond, and a safe place to go for crisis care.

The 988 dialing code is just a first step toward strengthening and transforming crisis care in this country. It serves as a universal entry point so that no matter where you live, you can reach a trained crisis counselor who can help.

FIRST CHOICE SERVICES is honored to continue its work answering the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in WV through the transition to 988.