What is 988?
988 is the nationwide three-digit number for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7 by call, text, or chat. It connects people in crisis with trained counselors who can provide free and confidential support for suicide, mental health, and substance use emergencies.
The Lifeline is part of a national network of more than 200 local and state-funded crisis centers. It is administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs, which manages the Veterans Crisis Line.
When did 988 launch?
In August 2019, FCC staff recommended establishing 988 as the new nationwide number.
In July 2020, the FCC adopted rules requiring all phone service providers to direct 988 calls to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
On July 16, 2022, 988 officially launched nationwide.
The original 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number continues to operate and connects callers to the same services.
Why is 988 important?
Suicide prevention is a critical public health need:
Suicide has consistently ranked among the top causes of death in the U.S.
In 2018, over 48,000 Americans died by suicide—that’s about one death every 11 minutes.
Easy access to crisis support reduces barriers, decreases stigma, and helps save lives.
Who can use 988?
Anyone in the United States who is experiencing:
Thoughts of suicide
A mental health crisis
A substance use crisis
Emotional distress
Friends and family worried about a loved one can also call, text, or chat 988 for support.
What services are available?
Call, text, or chat 988 to be connected with a trained counselor.
Services are available in English, Spanish, and 240+ languages through interpreters.
Veterans and service members can press 1 to be directly connected to the Veterans Crisis Line.
Specialized LGBTQ+ youth support (“Press 3”) was offered from 2022–2025 but ended in July 2025 due to lack of federal funding. Callers are still supported through the main line, and resources like The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386) remain available.
What happened to the “Press 3” option for LGBTQ+ youth?
The “Press 3” option, launched in 2022, provided specialized support for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults but was discontinued in July 2025 due to lack of federal funding. LGBTQ+ callers are still supported through the main 988 line, and services like The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386) remain available.
Is the old number still active?
Yes. The original 1-800-273-TALK (8255) remains active and continues to connect callers to the Lifeline.