New Nationwide Crisis Line Available 24/7

988 is the new national three-digit number for all mental health, substance use and suicide crises. The lifeline became available 24/7 nationwide on all devices July 16, 2022, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA).

» samhsa.gov/find-help/988

“988 will offer rapid access to behavioral health support through connection with trained crisis specialists,” notes the Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH).

» dmh.mo.gov/behavioral-health/988-suicide-and-crisis-lifeline

When someone calls, chats or texts 988 they will be directly connected to a specialist trained to support anyone experiencing a crisis. The specialists will, the DMH points outs, engage with each person using 988 to “understand and address the person’s unique concerns and needs.”

988 replaces the National Lifeline (1-800-273-8255).