The Daily News: Experts say ‘988’ crisis line is saving lives
By Christian M. Wade | Statehouse Reporter
Millions of Americans have called and texted the national 988 hotline since it launched nearly two years ago, but experts say more training and resources are needed to reach people considering suicide or experiencing a mental health emergency.
With bipartisan congressional support and $432 million in annual federal funds, the 988 helpline has quickly expanded its reach since it launched in 2022, with an average of 500,000 calls a month, texts and chat messages pouring into regional centers.
Backers of the system say there is a need to invest more money and resources to expand the “life-saving” program and raise public awareness.
“It has been extraordinarily successful, and has literally saved thousands of lives,” said Rep. Seth Moulton, a Salem Democrat who co-sponsored legislation that created the nationwide crisis line. “But that doesn’t mean there isn’t a lot more we can do to ensure more people know it exists.”
“But Massachusetts is still a little behind in funding the system as robustly as we could,” Moulton said. “We could really do a lot better.”
Read the article in its entirety at Experts say ‘988’ crisis line saving lives | Local News | newburyportnews.com.
Additional Resources
Struggling? Need to talk? A 988 crisis counselor is ready to help.
You can call to speak with someone or text any message to 988 to start a conversation. It’s free and confidential. Spanish language and options for deaf + hard of hearing available as well.
Visit 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call. Text. Chat. (988lifeline.org) for more info.
