The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

By P. Kimberly Thomas, Integrated Healthcare Systems Navigator (IHSN)

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reported that in 2022 51,498 people departed this world as a result of suicide. In 2023 the number decreased slightly to 49.316. The numbers for 2024 are still being finalized by the CDC but they appear to be continuing the trend of decreasing in number. This is progress!  It shows that recognizing that you are not feeling your best and reaching out for help CAN make a difference.  If you or someone you know are feeling hopeless and helpless STOP right now and CALL or TEXT 988 to speak with the Suicide & Crisis Hotline. You can also live chat with someone by typing 988lifeline.org in your web browser.  

988 serves as a universal entry point so that no matter where you live in the United States, you can reach a caring, trained counselor who can help. Additionally, 988 is helpful during mental health or substance use crises and can provide valuable resources that are locally available to you.

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, provides services to the deaf and hard of hearing community; you can reach out to 988 Videophone by calling 988 with a VP number or connecting through their web portal. Finalmente, 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifelinebrinda exactamente los mismos servicios a los estadounidenses de habla hispana.

You are not alone and there is someone out there who cares and will listen when you need them.  

Resources:

• Healthy Minds Philly / Suicide & Crises Prevention
• Know the Warning Signs and Risk Factors of Suicide
• Being Prepared for a Crisis
• Read our guide, "Navigating a Mental Health Crisis"
• What You Need to Know About Youth Suicide
• It’s Okay to Talk About Suicide
• Department of Behavioral Health & Intellectual disABILITY Services (DBHIDS)