Summary
Simply calling or texting 988 or chatting 988lifeline.org will connect a person in crisis to compassionate care and support for
any mental health or substance use-related distress.
Help for Suicide and Crisis
If you or someone you know is experiencing a crisis, simply calling or texting 988 or chatting on will connect you to compassionate care and support. This service is available for any mental health or substance use-related distress. Whether you are a person in crisis or someone supporting a person in crisis, you can reach 988 in the United States through any landline, cell phone, or voice-over internet device.
With the rising levels of anxiety, depression, emotional distress, and overdose deaths, it is essential for people to have somewhere to turn in their time of need. Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States, and the number of individuals with a substance use disorder continues to increase.
The 988 Lifeline: A Direct Connection to Support
The 988 Lifeline provides an immediate, free, and effective connection to support and resources for anyone in crisis. Remarkably, about 98 percent of people who call, chat, or text the 988 Lifeline receive the crisis support they need and do not require additional services at that moment.
This lifeline is a vital part of a broader vision to reimagine crisis care in the United States. Through federal, state, local, and community partnerships, SAMHSA is working toward a future where everyone has access to:
- Someone to talk to.
- Someone to respond.
- A safe place for help.
WHATEVER TIME: Day. Night. Weekends. Holidays.
WHATEVER THE REASON: Mental health distress. Substance use crisis. Thoughts of suicide.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is here for you. Read more at 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Fact Sheet (samhsa.gov)