988 Nationwide (USA) Mental Health hotline launches July 16

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The new national (USA) three-digit number — 988 — (mental health version of 911) is meant to connect people in mental health crises with those who are specially trained to respond to such situations. The easy-to-remember number launches July 16.

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 20 percent of Americans will have a mental illness in any given year. And reports of mental health problems have been growing in recent years, even before the Covid pandemic.

More at source:

https://www.nbcnews.com/health/mental-health/988-suicide-prevention-hotline-launches-july-will-pay-rcna31701

Edited June 7, 2022 by RememberSchiff

[RememberSchiff 3663]

988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. While some areas may be currently able to connect to the Lifeline by dialing 988, this dialing code will be available to everyone across the United States starting on July 16, 2022. 

When people call, text, or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary.

SAMHSA (Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration, part of US Dept, Health & Human Services) sees 988 as a first step towards a transformed crisis care system in America.

The current National Suicide Prevention Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255, 1-800-273-TALK) will always remain available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis, even after 988 is launched nationally.

The Lifeline’s network of over 200 crisis centers has been in operation since 2005, and has been proven to be effective. It’s the counselors at these local crisis centers who answer the contacts the Lifeline receives every day. Numerous studies have shown that callers feel less suicidal, less depressed, less overwhelmed and more hopeful after speaking with a Lifeline counselor. 

Answer the call! These centers are looking to bring on new volunteers and paid employees. You will receive training, so if you are a caring person who wants to help those in crisis, apply today. Find your opportunity: samhsa.gov/988-jobs

More at source links:

https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/current-events/the-lifeline-and-988/

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988

Edited June 7, 2022 by RememberSchiff