Key Takeaways:

  • 988 offers free, confidential mental health support 24/7 by call, text, or chat.
  • 988 now uses georouting for faster local response, improving care while protecting privacy.
  • Specialized help is available for veterans, Spanish-speaking individuals, and callers who are deaf or hard of hearing.
  • Employers can promote 988 through wellness programs and open mental health conversations.

Every year, millions of Americans experience emotional distress, substance use struggles, or suicidal thoughts. In 2023 alone, the U.S. recorded one death by suicide every 11 minutes, and suicide remained a leading cause of death for people ages 10–34. 

To make help easier to reach, in 2022, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline transitioned from a ten-digit to the 988 phone number. This three-digit number now connects people in crisis to trained counselors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a national network of more than 200 local crisis centers supported by SAMHSA and Vibrant Emotional Health. 

How 988 helps

988 is for anyone who feels overwhelmed, unsafe, or unsure where to turn. People reach out for many reasons, including suicidal thoughts, anxiety, substance-use struggles, or concern for someone they love. It is a safe and confidential way to find help without calling the police or 911, as calling 988 does not automatically dispatch emergency responders. 

Support is available by call, text, or online chat at 988lifeline.org. Trained counselors listen, de-escalate, and connect people to local resources. Specialized support is also available: 

  • Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 then press 1, or text 838255 
  • Spanish-language access: Call 988 and press 2, text AYUDA to 988, or start a live chat at 988lifeline.org/es/chat.
  • Videophone services for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and use American Sign Language are also available.

All services are free, confidential, and focused on helping individuals find immediate stability and ongoing support. 

2025 Advancements: Georouting for faster local response

In 2024, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) began implementing georouting, which allows wireless 988 calls to be directed to crisis centers based on a caller’s approximate location rather than their area code. This improvement ensures faster, more localized care, while still protecting user privacy.  

As of January 2025, all major U.S. phone carriers are required to support georouting for voice calls. The FCC adopted rules extending georouting to text messages, with phased implementation over 18–36 months.

These updates make it easier for people to receive help from counselors who know their regional resources. 

Proven impact

Since its launch, the 988 Lifeline has handled more than 13 million calls, texts, and chats nationwide. Independent evaluations from Columbia University’s Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene show that most people who contact the Lifeline feel less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after connecting with a counselor.

The system continues to expand capacity, multilingual access, and quality-assurance measures to meet growing demand across the country.

How employers can help

When employees and their families know where to turn during a crisis, they’re better equipped to manage stress, creating workplaces that are safer, more supportive, and more resilient.

Employers can make a difference by: 

  • Including 988 information in wellness and EAP communications 
  • Sharing posters or digital reminders in the workplace 
  • Encouraging leaders to speak openly about mental health 

At Lewer Benefits, we believe protecting people includes caring for their mental and emotional well-being. The 988 Lifeline makes that care accessible to everyone — any time it’s needed. 

If you or someone you know needs immediate support, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org.