Planning for 988

Abstract

This executive briefing discuses the “988,” a nationwide suicide prevention hotline to support suicide and mental health crises. On July 16, 2022, the 988 number will take effect, and be linked to the current National Suicide Prevention Lifeline telephone number of 1-800-283-TALK. The number is owned by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and will be funded through two, five-year SAMHSA grants totaling $48 million, managed by Vibrant Emotional Health. The federal “988” Lifeline is built on a network of over 180 local accredited crisis calls centers across the country that will provide 24/7 telephone and web-based chat services, as well as limited SMS support for callers.