988: A Direct Line for Suicide Prevention and Crisis Support
Effective July 16, 2022, the number 988 will serve as a direct link for suicide prevention and crisis support. People who call, text, or chat with 988 will be directly connected to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. 988 can be used by anyone, any time, at no cost. Trained crisis response professionals will be on hand to support individuals considering suicide, self-harm, or any behavioral or mental health need for themselves or people looking for help for a loved one experiencing a mental health crisis. This new Lifeline service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at no cost to the caller.
The existing Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will also remain available.
More information about the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline can be found on the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services’ website here.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out for help.
