Three years after its launch, less than half of U.S. adults are familiar with the 988 Lifeline. A new national survey conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago reveals that awareness of the National 988 Lifeline remains low three and a half years after its launch. Only 10 percent of adults report being very or extremely familiar with 988 and around 60 percent report limited to no familiarity, indicating that new strategies may be needed to raise awareness among the general public.

Adults ages 18-29 are significantly more likely to know about 988 than adults ages 65 and older, despite the fact that older adults are disproportionately affected by social isolation, loneliness, and suicide, and could benefit from 988’s services.

When asked about reasons they might contact 988, 48 percent of adults say they would call or text if they were having suicidal thoughts. About one-third say they would contact 988 to help a friend or loved one (35 percent) or for mental health concerns such as depression or anxiety (34 percent). Thirty-six percent say they would not contact 988 for any reason.