September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. During the month, we recognize the nationwide launch of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
What is 988?
• Think the equivalent of 911 only 988.
• Simply call, text, or chat 988 when you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health challenge or thoughts of suicide.
• A mental health professional will answer the call and it is completely anonymous and available 24/7.
What have the benefits been?
• Almost 5 million people have contacted the line in the last year, 2 million more than the previous one.
• The average answer time went from 2 minutes and 39 seconds to 41 seconds.
• There are specialized options for Veterans, Spanish subnetwork, and LGBTQI youth.
• It is available in all 50 states.