Resources to Help Your Patients Find Support Through the 988 Lifeline
What is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline?
The 988 lifeline connects individuals experiencing mental health, substance use, or suicidal crisis with immediate, free, and confidential support. Trained crisis counselors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to provide compassionate support and connect individuals with appropriate resources.
Need Help Now?
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health, substance use, or suicidal crisis, call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org to connect with a trained crisis counselor 24/7.
Visit the ACP I.M. Emotional Support Hub for peer support, confidential counseling, and resources to protect your well-being.
Individuals can access the Lifeline from anywhere in the United States by:
- Calling 988
- Texting 988
- Chatting online at 988lifeline.org
Since its launch in July 2022,the 988 Lifeline has served more than 23 million people, including:
- 15.8 million calls
- 4.2 million texts
- 3.4 million chats
How Physicians Can Use the 988 Lifeline to Support Patients
The 988 Lifeline is a valuable resource that physicians can recommend to patients experiencing:
- Thoughts of suicide
- A mental health crisis
- Depression, anxiety, or emotional distress
- Substance use disorders
- Concerns about a loved one experiencing a behavioral health crisis
Connecting patients to 988 can provide immediate access to trained crisis counselors who can offer:
- Emotional support
- Crisis de-escalation
- Safety planning
- Referrals to local services and resources, when appropriate
Important note: The 988 Lifeline provides immediate behavioral health crisis support and is not a substitute for ongoing medical or psychiatric care.
Specialized Services
The 988 Lifeline offers tailored support for specific populations, including:
- Veterans (through the Veterans Crisis Line)
- Spanish-speaking individuals
- People who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or have Hearing Loss
Additionally, the 988 lifeline website features resources designed for:
- LGBTQ+ individuals
- People of color
- Youth and young adults
- Communities with unique mental health needs
Resources for Physicians
The following resources can help physicians learn more about the 988 Lifeline and educate patients:
Resources for Patients and Caregivers
Share these resources with patients and caregivers seeking additional information:
For more information about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, visit 988lifeline.org.