988 for crisis help…

Starting on July 16, 2022, 988 is available nationwide as a number for people to call or text during a mental health, substance use or suicide crisis. Having an easy-to-remember, three digit number will help more people connect easily and quickly to trained counselors during a crisis. This is an important first step to help people in crisis and their families. What does this three-digit number mean for people in crisis?

What Changed in July?

Anyone in the U.S. can dial 988 to connect to the existing Lifeline Network, instead of the full ten-digit number (though the full number, 800-273-8255, will still work)

The Lifeline is expanded beyond only suicide to support people in a range of mental health, substance use and suicidal crises, People can also text 988 for support, another way to contact trained crisis counselors.

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – dial 988
• The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health 24-hour help line – 1-800-854-7771
• NAMI national helpline will connect callers to local support groups, recovery strategies, resource referrals and additional information – 1-800-950-6264
• For active emergencies, please call 911.