As of July 16, 2022, anyone in the United States can call or text the number 988 to access free, confidential, compassionate care and support for ANYONE experiencing mental health related distress -- whether that is thoughts of suicide, mental health crisis, or substance abuse crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress. You can also live chat at 988lifeline.org. People can also call or text 988 (or chat) if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.
A mental health, suicidal, or substance abuse crisis is any situation in which a person's behavior puts them at risk of hurting themselves or others and/or prevents them from being able to function well in the community. For example, a person in crisis may experience one or more of the following: actively thinking about suicide or self-harm; erratic, unusual, risky or harmful behavior; delusions, paranoia or other psychotic symptoms; or extreme withdrawal from everyday life.
No. 988 has expanded to cover not only suicide prevention, but mental health and substance abuse crises.