People in crisis have an easy way to get confidential, free assistance 24/7 with a call, text or chat to 988. The new suicide and crisis hotline will provide help to anyone having thoughts of suicide, a mental health or substance-abuse crisis, or any other type of emotional distress.
People can also call 988 if they’re worried about someone else who may need crisis support.
The new 988 crisis line opens July 16 and will be available 365 days a year. Services will be available in Spanish, along with interpretation services in over 250 languages.
The 988 service will not replace other crisis call centers in Washington — it just adds to the network of crisis center providers. The current National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), will remain active along with 988.
Veterans can get specialized assistance by calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and pressing 1.
People who are deaf, hard of hearing, or who use TTY should dial 711 and then 1-800-273-8255, or use their preferred relay service.
