988: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, an Introduction

Apr 27, 2023

Back to Veoci Blog988: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, an Introduction
Veoci Staff

In the United States, 911 is a number that is instilled into us as soon as we can speak. We know that if anything were to happen, when we press those three numbers in that order, we will be put into contact with someone who is going to do everything in their power to get us the help we need.

Our society’s stance on mental health has recently taken a shift in a positive direction. Though there is undeniably still work to be done, there have been clear steps to make sure that citizens are aware of, and have access to help. Even still, too many people have suicide crises or mental related distress without the immediate support and care that they both need and deserve.

To address this, as of July 16, 2022, the new nationwide number for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (previously known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) is 988. Any calls or texts sent to 988 are routed to one of the over 200 crisis centers all over the country and free and confidential help and support is offered. Additionally, there is a chat feature that can be used if you go to 988lifeline.org.

This Lifeline was created for anyone experiencing suicidal, substance use, and/or mental health crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress. Veterans can also press “1” after dialing 988 to connect to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline (VCL), and for texts, they should continue to text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline code: 838255. This number is also available to anyone who might be worried about a loved one.

The Lifeline initiative has already proven to be impactful. In February 2023 alone, 346,224 calls were routed to 988. From February 2022 to February 2023 the average speed to answer across all contacts decreased from 192 seconds to 35 seconds, with the amount of total calls answered increasing by 48%. Further implementation means more citizens aided.

Implementing 988 has always been an initiative that positively impacts lives across the country, but often the cost of actually executing became a hurdle that seemed impossible to clear. Now however, there are several federal resources to be tapped to allow for implementation. If this sounds like a hurdle you have been facing, click here for direct links, examples and further information.

Learn more about Veoci's solutions for government here.

Subscribe to the Veoci Blog

Receive all the latest emergency, crisis, and continuity management news, tips, and advice

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Related Posts

988: Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, an Introduction

To address this, as of July 16, 2022, the new nationwide number for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (previously known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) is 988. Any calls or texts sent to 988 are routed to one of the over 200 crisis centers all over the country and free and confidential help and support is offered. Additionally, there is a chat feature that can be used if you go to 988lifeline.org.

Continue reading
Transcript: COOP Reinvented: How to Simplify and Accelerate Your Recovery Plans

This is a transcript from the webinar, COOP Reinvented: How to Simplify and Accelerate Your Recovery Plans, that was held of February 23, 2023.

Continue reading
Practitioner’s Profile: How Natalie Monnett Puts Heart in Emergency Management and Preparedness

Natalie Monnett joined Veoci in October of 2021, and since has become a pillar for our Government team. With her infectious can-do attitude and undeniable empathy toward our customers, she has been a fantastic addition to Veoci. 

Continue reading

Connect with us on Social Media

Join us on our journey to improve emergency, operations, and continuity management!

Veoci Facebook PageVeoci Twitter AccountVeoci Linkedin Company Page

Face crisis and continuity challenges with expert solutions designed for you and your teams.

Schedule a Demo Now
ISO 27001 Certified Badge