What is 988?
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, launched on July 16, 2022, replaces the National Suicide Prevention Line's 10-digit number with the easier-to-remember three-digit code, 988. Funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and managed by Vibrant Emotional Health, the 988 Lifeline connects callers, texters, and chat users to trained crisis counselors at over 200 local crisis centers nationwide. These counselors offer free, confidential support 24/7 to individuals in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. The previous number, 1-800-273-8255, remains active.
call.
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History of the Lifeline
The 988 network was built оп the history of local suicide hotlines and what was known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline since 2005.
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The California 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (California 988 Lifeline) is а 24/7, free, confidential call, chat and text service designed to provide compassionate, practical, and life-saving support to individuals. Numerous studies have shown that most callers are significantly more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking to a 988 Lifeline crisis counselor.
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The California 988 Lifeline is part of the national 988 Suicide and
Crisis Lifeline.
