No
- In 2020, Congress designated 988 as a new nationwide number to meet the growing need for mental health crisis intervention and save lives. The shorter, easier to remember and faster to reach three-digit calling code replaced the Suicide Prevention Lifeline number. On July 16, 2022, the 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline was introduced nationwide and call center operations are organized at the state level. The transition increased access to behavioral health services across the nation and in local communities.
- Today, 988 nationwide connects millions of people each year with compassionate, trained crisis counselors. States continue to build out local services—such as mobile crisis teams and stabilization programs—to create a more person-focused alternative to law enforcement responses to mental health crises.
Yes. Conversations are private and protected. Crisis counselors may ask for your location only if they believe you or someone else is in immediate danger.
Yes. Press Option 2 to be connected with veteran services.
No. 988 does not use geolocation. Your area code helps route your call, and counselors cannot access your location unless you tell them.
Emergency services are used only in high-risk situations after all other de-escalation methods have been exhausted. Most responses are resolved without involvement from law enforcement.
MCR is a voluntary service and is only activated when a caller consents to the service. If a caller refuses MCR and the crisis counselor is concerned about the caller's safety, then emergency services may be activated instead.
988 is free to call, text, or chat. It does not require insurance.
Yes. Friends, family members, teachers, coworkers, neighbors, or anyone concerned about a loved one can contact 988 for help.
How to Talk About 988 With Someone You Care About
Start with care and honesty. Say something like:
“I've noticed you've had a lot going on. You don't have to handle this alone—988 is available any time if you want someone to talk to."
You don't need to have perfect words; showing you care is what matters most.
If something “feels off," it's okay to check in. You might say:
“Are you doing okay? You seem overwhelmed lately and I am concerned about you. If you ever need support, 988 can help."
988 is for any level of emotional distress, not just emergencies.
Yes. If the person is open to it, you can offer to sit with them while they call, text, or chat. Try to find a de-stimulating and comfortable space. You can say: “If you want, we can reach out to 988 together."
Some people find it comforting to have someone nearby.
Absolutely. You can contact 988 even if you are not the one in crisis. Counselors can help you understand what to say, how to support the person, and what next steps might be helpful.
Do not force someone to use 988, there are other ways to show support. Remind them you care and continue checking in.
You might say: “I respect your decision. Just know 988 is here any time, and so am I."
Use a calm, compassionate tone. Avoid phrases like “You need help" or “You should call."
Instead try: “You're not alone. There's a free, confidential helpline—988—where you can talk to someone who understands."
Ask directly to ensure everyone stays safe.
Try: “Sometimes when people feel this overwhelmed, they think about hurting themselves. Are you feeling that way?"
If they say yes—or if you are unsure—you can encourage them to contact 988 or call together. If someone is in immediate danger, contact emergency services.
Yes, as long as you are respectful and considerate. Think about who is nearby if you choose to discuss accessing help. You do not need details about someone's personal life to share the resource. You might say:
“A helpful resource might be 988. It's available 24/7 if anyone ever needs support."
Keep it simple and supportive.
“If you ever feel stressed, scared, or need someone to talk to, you can call or text 988. You won't get in trouble for calling and it's free."
Make sure they know they will not be punished for reaching out.
That is okay. You can still help by listening and reminding the person that 988 is available.
Try: “I care about you and want you to feel supported. 988 is there to listen whenever you need."
