The concept of an easily memorable three-digit crisis number began in August 2019, when FCC staff proposed the idea to improve access to mental health support. The FCC officially adopted rules establishing 988 as the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline on July 16, 2020. Text messaging capabilities were added in November 2021, and on July 16, 2022, the full service was launched nationwide. Today, anyone experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts can reach immediate confidential and free support by either calling or texting 988, connecting them directly with trained crisis counselors.
The 988 Lifeline, which replaced the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (1-800-273-TALK), provides comprehensive crisis support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week across all 50 states. Callers and texters to 988 are automatically routed to one of 200 local crisis centers nationwide. Services are available in English and Spanish (added in 2023), with additional language support provided through tele-interpreters. According to current Health Secretary Xavier Becerra, the new three-digit number received 2 million more calls in its first year of operation compared to the previous year's volume on the former helpline number.
When contacting 988 through call, chat, or text, users will first go through a brief screening process that takes a few minutes. During this initial assessment, they'll be asked several questions before being connected to a trained crisis counselor. While not optimal for a person in crisis, this short waiting period ensures each person is directed to the most appropriate support for their situation.
When calling 988, the options are as follows:
Press 1: Connects to the Veterans Crisis Line
Press 2: Provides service in Spanish
Press 3: Links to crisis counselors specifically trained to support LGBTQI+ individuals
When someone reaches out to 988 by call or text, they receive following prompts:
Thank you for reaching out to 988 Lifeline. We’re here to help. By continuing to text with us, you agree to our terms. (link to terms) Reply STOP at any time to disconnect.
Para español, envia la palabra AYUDA
Veterans/service members, text 838255 directly
Otherwise, reply NEXT to continue
To connect with a trained crisis counselor for LGBTQI+ youth and young adults: reply PRIDE
Otherwise, reply NEXT to continue
To help your crisis counselor support you, please share if you have thoughts of suicide.
Reply A, B, or C: {A} Yes within 24 hours; {B} Yes, within 2 months; {C} No.
Thank you. On a scale of 1 to 5, how upset are you? (1 is “I’m okay,” 3 is “Moderately upset,” and 5 is “Extremely upset”)
A crisis counselor will be with you shortly. While you wait, please do this brief survey to help them support you. (link to survey)
References:
https://988lifeline.org/