988 Day is Sept. 8: Know the number, know the support
(SACRAMENTO)
Sept. 8 is 988 Day, an opportunity to raise awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and help people understand how they can access free, confidential support when they need it.
988 offers 24/7 judgement-free support for mental health, substance use, and more. Text, call or chat 988.
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a resource for anyone experiencing emotional distress, a mental health or substance use concern, or a crisis. This year’s 988 Day theme, “988 Reasons: Your reason is reason enough,” reinforces the message that there is no wrong reason to reach out.
Virpal Donley, VP, Associate Chief Nursing Executive, UC Davis Children’s Hospital, said, “Everyone experiences difficult moments, and knowing where to turn for support can make an important difference. 988 is an accessible resource for patients, families and anyone who may be struggling with their mental health or simply needs someone to talk to. We want people to know that they can reach out for support at any time. There’s always someone available to listen and help.”
988 is available 24/7 People can connect with a trained counselor in whichever way works best for them: • Call 988 to speak with a trained counselor. • Text 988 to connect by text message. • Chat online through the 988 Lifeline website. • Additional support is available for Spanish speakers, veterans, service members and their loved ones, people who are deaf or hard of hearing, and LGBTQ+ youth and young adults.
Support is also available if you're worried about someone else You don't have to be seeking help for yourself to contact 988. If you are concerned about a family member, friend or someone you care about, you can reach out to 988 for support and guidance on how to help them.
When should you contact 988? Contact 988 if you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress, a mental health or substance use concern, grief or loss, relationship challenges, thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or simply needs someone to talk to. You don't have to wait until things become overwhelming to ask for help.
Your reason is reason enough.
This 988 Day, take a moment to save 988 in your phone and learn more about this free, confidential resource.
