Chances are you are familiar with 911, the universal emergency number that individuals across the country use to request emergency help. On the other hand, 988 is a new three-digit emergency number that you might be less familiar with but hopefully starting to hear more about.

988 refers to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which was formally a 10-digit phone number known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. 988, the shortened version also known simply as the Lifeline, officially launched on July 16^th representing a network of more than 200 state and local call centers across the country that provide 24/7, immediate, free and confidential support for those experiencing mental health related crisis.

The importance of 988 is clear. First, statistics continue to highlight the mental health needs facing the country. For a combination of reasons, the complex need for immediate, easily accessible, reliable mental health care continues to grow, requiring a more streamlined, coordinated approach to serving those in need. Second, for years law enforcement has been tasked with handling a growing percentage of mental health crises that otherwise would likely not need law enforcement intervention.

Perhaps the first question that many ask when considering the Lifeline is whether or not they should call. What constitutes a crisis? Is this particular incident or feeling worth calling about? The resounding answer when considering whether to reach out to the Lifeline is simply, yes. Certainly in circumstances when you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, dial 988. However, the Lifeline also exists to support those experiencing emotional distress, abuse, trauma, substance abuse, relationship difficulties, economic worries, feeling depressed or lonely or any other problems.

With that said, similar to visiting a therapist for the first time, there can be some natural trepidation to using 988. It can be helpful to have at least some understanding as to what happens when one uses the Lifeline. First, reaching out to the Lifeline can be done via phone, text or online chat. Using the service over the phone allows individuals to communicate in English or Spanish, or in over 150 languages through an interpreter service. Options are also available for the deaf and hard of hearing.  

Callers will hear a welcome message and hold music before being connected to the closest local Lifeline network crisis center. If no one is available at the closest center, the call will be routed to a center within the national backup network. Those using the text or chat option will be shown a brief survey to gather information and then be connected to a counselor.

In any case, a trained, skilled crisis counselor will listen, work to understand the problem, provide support and then offer any resources or additional services that might be necessary or helpful. All interactions with crisis counselors through 988 are handled confidentially. In fact, it isn’t necessary for individuals to share any personal data to receive help.

In Iowa, the two crisis centers that are part of the Lifeline network are Foundation 2 in Cedar Rapids and CommUnity in Iowa City. That means that calls, texts and chats made to 988 in Iowa will be routed to one of those two centers. Having these local partners is important not only in providing immediate trusted care, but also in being able to deliver a more robust crisis response system that includes the ability to connect those in need with community-based providers and other local, in-person support services.

To learn more about 988, visit 988lifeling.org. And if you or someone you know is in need of mental health related support, remember 988.