The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides localized mental health support to Philadelphians

Posted on: Thursday, 12.21.2023

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. The Lifeline is comprised of a national network of more than 200 local crisis centers, combining custom local care and resources with national standards and best practices.

The Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States. It provides support in both English and Spanish. The average speed for a call to be answered is approximately 45 seconds, providing those in need with quick access to support. 

With the CDC reporting notable increases in suicide rates in the US in 2021 and 2022, resources like the 988 Lifeline are a critical source of support for those experiencing suicidality and other crises.

According to a report published by KFF News, since the launch of the Lifeline in July 2022 through May 2023, 988 has received almost 5 million contacts. Of these, nearly 1 million were from the Veteran’s Crisis Line – a part of 988 – with the rest consisting of 2.6 million calls, more than 740,000 chats, and 600,000 texts.

Visit 988lifeline.org to learn more.

For additional mental health resources, view PHMC’s mental health programs.