U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Accessible by Dialing 988 Starting July 16

Since 2005, the Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) has answered tens of millions of calls to help people overcome mental health-related distress. The new three-digit dialing code 988, available via call or text, will start connecting individuals to trained counselors on July 16. Chat is also available online at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.  

Using 988 is free, confidential, and available 24/7. It is more than just an easy-to-remember number — it’s a direct connection to compassionate, accessible counselors who will listen to concerns, provide support, and get additional help if needed. 

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