SAMSHA Considers 988 Dialing Code A Major First Step In Transforming The Crisis Care System In America
“On July 16, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) will transition to an easy-to-remember, 3-digit number (988). This represents an unprecedented opportunity to strengthen and expand the existing network of over 200 locally operated and funded crisis centers across the country.”
SAMHSA, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Congress designated the new 988 dialing code in 2020. At that time, the U.S. had one death by suicide every 11 minutes, approximately 125-130 persons per day for the entire year. Suicide was the leading cause of death for people aged 10-34 years.
Tragically, for every one suicide death, there are another estimated 25 suicide attempts, adding up to over 1 million (1,149,475) annual attempts in the U.S. alone (using 25:1 ratio), or one attempt every 27.5 seconds.
A REASON FOR HOPE
As of February 2022, 93% of adults surveyed in the U.S. think suicide can be prevented.
RESOURCES & RESEARCH
Access implementation resources, partner toolkits, and shareable materials as we all work together to share safe spaces for persons in need of crisis care.
988 will operate through the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 800-273-8255, which will also continue to be accessible and open 24 hours a day, in English & in Spanish languages.
- 🌐 SAMHSA’s toolkits and shareable materials: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988
- 🌐 THE SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE SITE: https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/current-events/the-lifeline-and-988/
- 🌐 SAVE.ORG’s Statistics: Suicide Statistics and Facts – SAVE
- 🌐 VETERAN’S CRISIS LINE: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/about/what-is-988/
- 🌐 NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF MENTAL HEALTH Statistics on Suicide: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/suicide#part_2585
988 SUICIDE AND CRISIS LIFELINE VOLUNTEER AND JOB OPPORTUNITIES
In advance of the 988 transition, the Lifeline Suicide & Crisis Network is looking for new volunteers and paid employees to answer calls, chats, and texts from people in crisis. All employees and volunteers receive training. If you are a caring person who wants to help, apply today by searching “ 988 Jobs SAMHSA” online, or linking here.
