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Launching and improving access to 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

This blog discusses the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, a nationwide initiative aimed at providing accessible, immediate support for individuals experiencing mental health crises through the easy-to-remember number 988.

Organizations: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Published Year: 2022

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Launched in July 2022, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers a simplified and accessible way for individuals facing mental health crises to connect with trained counselors.

This three-digit number replaces the previous National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) but remains connected to the same network of crisis centers. The initiative aims to improve mental health crisis response by reducing reliance on law enforcement and ensuring that individuals receive appropriate care and support.