988: The 3-Digit Lifeline for Mental Health & Crisis Support
We all know the importance of having a quick, easy-to-remember number for emergencies like a fire or a medical crisis: 911. But what about a mental health crisis? Until recently, finding immediate, specialized help could be confusing and overwhelming.
There’s a simple, confidential number for help: 988.
We believe in supporting the whole well-being of our neighbors. That's why we want to shine a light on the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—a vital resource dedicated to crisis prevention and emotional support for everyone in Phoenix and across the country.
What is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline?
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is the new, easy-to-remember three-digit number that connects you with the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline network of over 200 crisis centers.
It's designed to be the mental health equivalent of 911, offering a direct connection to immediate support and resources 24/7.
It's available 24/7/365: Help is always available, day or night.
It’s free and confidential: Your conversations are private and non-judgmental.
It's for everyone: You don't have to be in a suicidal crisis to reach out.
More Than Just Suicide Prevention
While the Lifeline is essential for suicide prevention, its purpose is much broader. You can reach out to 988 for any emotional distress or mental health concern, including:
Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
Substance use challenges
Emotional distress, anxiety, or depression
Loneliness, grief, or loss
Relationship troubles or stress
If you are worried about a loved one and need guidance
When you call, text, or chat 988, you are connected with a trained, compassionate crisis counselor who is ready to listen, provide support, and connect you with local resources if needed.
Know the Signs and Start the Conversation
Suicide is preventable. Recognizing the warning signs in yourself or a loved one is the first step in getting help.
Warning Signs of a Crisis:
Talking about feeling hopeless, having no reason to live, or being a burden to others.
Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.
Withdrawing or isolating from friends and family.
Acting anxious, agitated, or behaving recklessly.
Extreme mood swings or showing rage.
How You Can Help:
If you are concerned about someone, the most important thing you can do is ask directly and listen without judgment.
Acknowledge: Acknowledge their pain and tell them you care.
Ask: Ask directly, "Are you thinking about killing yourself?" Asking this will not put the idea in their head; it shows you take them seriously.
Connect: Encourage them to connect with professional help immediately. Offer to call or text 988 with them, or help them contact a local resource.
Local Phoenix Resources and Crisis Support
While 988 is the national lifeline, your call or text will be routed to a local crisis center in Arizona when possible, which is equipped to understand the needs of our community.
In addition to 988, here are some critical local and specialized resources for our Phoenix community:
Arizona Statewide Crisis Line (Solari): Call 1-844-534-HOPE (4673) (or text HOPE to 4HOPE) for immediate and confidential support.
Teen Lifeline (Inside Maricopa County): Call or text 602-248-8336 (TEEN), staffed by and for teens.
Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1 or text 838255.
The introduction of 988 is a massive step forward in making mental health and crisis care more accessible. It’s a number everyone should save in their phone—a beacon of hope that tells our community: You are not alone. Help is here.
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress, please don't wait. Call or Text 988 right now.
