The need for 988

“Too many people are experiencing suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress without the support and care they need, and sadly, the pandemic only made a bad situation worse when it comes to mental health and wellness in America.

There are urgent realities driving the need for crisis service transformation across our country. Some statistics:

  • In 2020 alone, the U.S. had one death by suicide about every 11 minutes
  • For people aged 10 – 34 years, suicide is a leading cause of death, and
  • From April 2020 to 2021, over 100,000 individuals died from drug overdoses.

Yet, there is hope. The 988 Lifeline helps thousands of struggling people overcome suicidal crisis or mental-health related distress every day.”

Source Link Here

 

About 988

In 2020, Congress designated the new 988 dialing code to be operated through the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. SAMHSA sees 988 as a first step towards a transformed crisis care system in America.

  • Source Link