Using the 988 Crisis Line

This week, we’d like to highlight a new resource available to you: the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline! The 988 line has been in operation as 1-800-273-8255 (which is still online), but as of July 16th, 2022, the crisis line’s phone number changed to 988 to make it even easier to reach help when needed. If you call 988, a trained counselor in one of the over 200 crisis centers nationwide will answer to provide you with immediate support. You can dial the number, text the number, or visit their website to chat with someone online.

This line is for individuals who are experiencing mental health emergencies. Some examples of mental health emergencies are:

• Fear of harming yourself

• Fear of harming others

• Experiencing suicidal thoughts

• Experiencing extreme mental health distress

This line is a perfect resource to call if you’re experiencing a mental health emergency and do not want to call 911 or do not have access to an available emergency room or in-person crisis center. Please remember: if you are experiencing a mental health crisis and may harm yourself or others, you can always call 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or contact a mobile crisis center near you.

Crisis lines such as 988 are just an element of holistic healthcare. Not everyone has access to the insurance required to attend an inpatient treatment center. Not all individuals live in an area with a hospital or emergency service nearby. Not every town has a mobile crisis center that can come to you. As we continue to assess the holistic needs of each person, crisis lifelines like 988 help us to fill in the gaps in the American healthcare system.

If you are not experiencing a mental health crisis or emergency and want to talk to a mental health counselor in a non-emergency setting, we’d love to help. Reach out to us today at Rise and Thrive therapy to receive holistic, client-centered care. We look forward to hearing from you!