Today I want to highlight a new change happening in the world of suicide prevention and crisis support that everyone - not just online therapists and mental health professionals! - can easily keep in their toolbelt.
It’s called 988.
What is 988?
Starting on July 16th, 2022 a new three-digit code - you guessed it - 988, will go into effect nationally. Connecting people to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The existing lifeline number (800-273-8255) will continue to be active and connect people to the lifeline even after 988 is launched.
The functions of the lifeline remain the same with the only change being the accessibility of a shortened three-digit code (988). If you’re unfamiliar with what this service provides, here's a brief overview.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a free national service providing 24/7 support to those in mental health and substance use crises (not just suicidal persons). It can also be used by someone who is concerned about someone else in distress. The Lifeline provides talk, chat, and text with trained counselors (all in English, some with Spanish and others with translation software).
National Institute of Mental Health
An Online Therapist's View on Why 988 Matters
Although it may appear to be a small change, the implications are crucial. For one, it is significantly easier to remember 988 than it is 800-273-8255. When someone is in distress, it is hard to think clearly or effectively.
Think about the last time you were stressed and frantic. For example, maybe you had a major presentation at work or school, and then you realized you left your computer or lunch at home. When emotions are heightened, the part of our brain responsible for decision-making is turned down (or sometimes completely off). Having 988 as a designated code reduces this barrier and addresses this gap in functioning, ultimately increasing accessibility.
This means more people will remember it.
More people in the public equipped = more people receiving support = more lives saved.
That’s a win-win-win!
211 versus 911 versus 988
It can get confusing trying to understand what number codes offer what services. Here is a quick, simple breakdown for you: *911 and 988 may coordinate support depending on the needs of the situation*
- 211: offers information and referrals for non-emergent medical and social services. Not intended for a crisis.
- 911: used for medical, fire, and police emergency situations. This also includes mental health crises.
- 988: intended for mental/emotional distress including suicidal thoughts and substance use issues.
Knowing About 988 Can Help You Be Prepared
Whether mental health crises are something you are familiar with personally or not, chances are you have encountered or know someone who has. And if not, it’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when. It can be terrifying not knowing what to do for yourself or another person who is in significant distress. For that reason alone, it’s important to be prepared with what you can!
There are trainings you can take that walk you through how to help a person in mental/ emotional distress or who is suicidal. You can check a couple of those out here and here.
Now that you know, you can stand more confident in your ability to help yourself or someone else struggling! Want to help others? Share this post!
Ready to Get Support From an Online Therapist in Oregon?
Could you use mental health support from an online therapist in Oregon? At Discover Counseling we offer supportive mental health services that are tailored to your needs. Whether you are in a mental health crisis or want to start prioritizing your emotional health we can help. If you need emergent help call 988! Otherwise, you can follow these steps to start online therapy:
- Contact us to speak with an online therapist
- Make your first appointment at our therapy practice
- Start moving forward with support and guidance
Mental Health Supportive Services At Discover Counseling in Tigard, OR
Our understanding online therapists offer several options to support you and your mental health needs.
Such as anxiety treatment, trauma recovery, therapy for life transitions, and counseling for postpartum. In addition to therapy for teens, Christian counseling, and codependency treatment. We also offer support for your relationship with premarital counseling, couples therapy, marriage counseling, and therapy for relationship problems. At Discover Counseling we look forward to hearing from you.
Ready to take the next step?
We'd love to hear from you. Our therapists serve Tigard and the greater Portland area — in person and online across Oregon.
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