Service codes
988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
988 reaches trained crisis counselors for anyone struggling with mental health, suicide, or substance use. Free, confidential, 24/7.
Last updated June 5, 2026
988 is the nationwide Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Call or text 988 from any US phone to reach a trained counselor for free, confidentially, around the clock. It launched in July 2022 and is the reason most of the country switched to 10-digit dialing.
What 988 is
988 connects you to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — a national network of local crisis centers staffed by trained counselors. It's for anyone in emotional distress: suicidal thoughts, a mental health or substance-use crisis, or simply needing someone to talk to. The service is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day.
How to reach it
You can call 988, text 988, or chat online through the Lifeline's website. There are dedicated options too, including a Veterans Crisis Line (press 1) and Spanish-language and other support services. You don't need to be suicidal to reach out — counselors help with any emotional crisis.
Why 988 changed how the country dials
Before 988 launched in July 2022, some regions still used seven-digit local dialing — and some local phone numbers began with the digits "988". To make the three-digit shortcut work everywhere without conflict, the FCC required those areas to adopt 10-digit dialing. That transition completed in October 2021, ahead of the 988 launch.
988 vs. 911
Call 911 when there's immediate physical danger — a medical emergency or someone's safety at risk right now. Call 988 for mental health and crisis support. The two systems coordinate when a situation requires emergency response.
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
What is 988 used for?
988 is the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Call or text it for free, confidential support during a suicidal, mental health, or substance-use crisis, 24/7.
Can I text 988?
Yes. You can call or text 988, or chat online through the Lifeline website, to reach a trained crisis counselor.
Is 988 confidential and free?
Yes. Calls and texts to 988 are free and confidential, available around the clock from any US phone.
Why did 988 require 10-digit dialing?
Some local numbers started with 988, so the FCC required areas that still used 7-digit dialing to switch to 10 digits, freeing 988 as a nationwide shortcut.
Keep reading
Related guides
How US Area Codes Work · Overlay Area Codes Explained · Area Code Splits · 10-Digit Dialing · Toll-Free Numbers · Newest & Upcoming Area Codes · Retired & Changed Area Codes · Spam & Scam-Risk Area Codes