In a world where mental health issues are on the rise, it’s crucial to have resources available for those in crisis. One such resource is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which offers free, confidential access to trained crisis counselors 24/7 for individuals in distress. This lifeline has been in operation for two years now, providing invaluable support to those in need.
To raise awareness about the 988 resources, advocates have come together to celebrate the very first 988 Day on Sunday, Sept. 8. The theme for this inaugural event is “No judgment. Just help.” The goal is to emphasize the importance of mental health and suicide prevention, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the agency that funds the 988 Lifeline.
Data shows that only 18% of adults are familiar with 988 resources, highlighting the urgent need to increase awareness. This lack of awareness is even more pronounced among Black, Hispanic, and Asian adults, as well as those who do not speak English fluently.
In 2022, the U.S. recorded one death by suicide every 11 minutes, making suicide the leading cause of death for certain age groups. More than 13 million individuals reported having serious thoughts of suicide. These stark statistics underscore the importance of crisis support services like the 988 Lifeline.
Since its launch, 988 crisis counselors have handled over 10 million calls, texts, and chats, showcasing the lifeline’s impact. Text-based communication has become increasingly popular, with a significant 51% increase in text-initiated contacts between 2023 and 2024.
While progress has been made in improving wait times and answer rates, challenges still remain. The 988 Lifeline consists of a network of over 200 local crisis centers with varying levels of funding and resources, which can impact service quality.
At MHA, we advocate for a healthcare-focused response to mental health crises rather than a law enforcement one. We pushed for legislation establishing 988 and continue to work towards increasing resources for the program at both the federal and state levels. Additionally, the 988 Lifeline offers specialized sub-networks for Spanish speakers, veterans, and the LGBTQ+ community to ensure culturally competent support.
In celebration of 988 Day, SAMHSA has created a free digital toolkit with resources for advocates, including fact sheets, social media assets, and event ideas. The agency encourages the use of the hashtag #988Day to promote activities and raise awareness. A social event wall will aggregate these efforts for easy access.
Health and Human Services Deputy Secretary Andrea Palm emphasizes the importance of the 988 Lifeline as a vital resource for those in need. The message is clear: help is available, and no one should feel alone in their struggles.
If you or someone you know is facing a crisis, do not hesitate to reach out for help. Call or text 988, or text MHA to 741741 for support. Additional resources and warning signs can be found on the MHA website to assist those in need.
