What is 988?
988 is a three-digit number that offers 24/7 and statewide access to crisis services via call, text, or chat. Trained crisis specialists are available and can help individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance use, and/or mental health crisis or any other kind of emotional distress. While 988 is available nationally, it is up to each state to ensure crisis services are adequately funded and available to anyone, anywhere, anytime. Missouri’s 988 Task Force continues to develop plans for 988 and the Missouri Crisis Care Continuum.
How does 988 work?
When someone calls, chats, or texts 988, they can expect to be connected to a trained crisis specialist who is ready to listen and help. Because a crisis is defined by the person or family experiencing it, the crisis specialist will engage with the person to understand and address the person’s unique concerns and needs. The call is free and confidential, you decide how much information to share. Support doesn’t have to end with that conversation. Our crisis specialists can connect you with resources for follow up. If a higher level of care is needed at the time of contact, the crisis specialist will work with the caller and other supports to connect them to a mobile crisis response team to respond to the person in the community.
When should you call 988?
If you are thinking about suicide, are experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, or are worried about a friend or loved one, reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for support by calling or texting 988, or chatting at 988lifeline.org/chat.
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