It’s been a year since the three-digit dialing code 988 was launched to connect callers directly to trained counselors at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (or 988 Lifeline). Since then, it has served 5 million people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress with free and confidential emotional support and crisis counseling. When people call, text, or chat with the 988 Lifeline, they are connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing 988 Lifeline network, made up of over 200 local crisis centers throughout the country. Numerous studies have shown that callers feel less suicidal, less depressed, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking with a 988 Lifeline counselor.
