988

CALL OR TEXT 988

If you, or someone you know, are having thoughts of harming themselves or in emotional distress we ask that you seek help immediately.

As people across the country continue to deal with COVID-19, higher food and gas prices, and so much more, the need for expanded mental health support has increased dramatically. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, between 2010 and 2020, almost half a million individuals lost their lives to suicide. It is with that in mind that the Green Shoe Foundation is proud to announce that on Saturday, July 16, 2022, there was a major change in how people struggling with suicide and/or other mental health crises can find help and support. After a two-year process began by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), on July 16, 2022, the U.S. transitioned the 10-digit National Suicide Prevention Lifeline to simply 988. The FCC worked with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide a shorter three-digit number (similar to how 911 works) to provide 24/7 crisis care and resources for those experiencing a mental health crisis.

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a national network of over 200 crisis centers dedicated to helping individuals experiencing suicidal, substance use, mental health crisis, or emotional distress. Those experiencing such crises can now have 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors via telephone calls, texts, and chat. The number can also be used by those who have a loved one in need of crisis support. The 988 Lifeline also provides a special connection to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline for our nation’s Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and their friends and families. For texts, Veterans should continue to text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline shortcode: 838255.

Simply call or text 988 (24/7) to be connected to a local Lifeline crisis center. Once connected, a crisis counselor will listen to you and provide support and resources that may be helpful. The Lifeline offers both English and Spanish support as well as Language Line Solutions for over 250 additional languages. Texting 988 is currently available in English only. You can also chat live (24/7) with a crisis counselor by visiting 988lifeline.org/chat. The chat option includes possible wait time. For immediate assistance, call 988.

Help us save lives by spreading the word about 988 today.