Suicide Awareness Month - What Happens when you use 988?

September suicide awareness and prevention month. We've been sharing a ton of information, resources, and more on our socials. Today we wanted to focus on, what happens when you call 988?

First, what is 988?

988 is the national crisis lifeline. It can be accessed via chat, text, or calling. It is designed for crisis situations - suicidality, self-harm, depression; drug use, anyone who needs to talk. It is NOT the same as calling 911.

What happens when I contact 988?

You will be asked a few questions to ensure your safety, assess how upset you are, what you are dealing with. You will then speak with a crisis counselor. They will ask questions about the situation. You are able to talk to them for as long as you feel like you need. They will walk you through creating a safety plan - a series of steps to identify triggers, plans for coping, and professional and personal supports.

Will I be hospitalized?

Hospitalization is a scary thought, and it makes sense to wonder about this. Most people who contact 988 are able to feel resolution to the immediate crisis without hospitalization.

What happens after?

988 will ask if they can follow up with you and obtain your contact information. They will reach out about 2 weeks after your initial contact.

What else should I know?

988 is a free resource. There is no cost to use 988 and no limit to how often you can contact them for support. And, using 988 isn't a sign of weakness; in fact, its an incredible sign of strength.