What Happens When I Call, Text or Chat the Lifeline?

 Call

  • When you call 988, you'll hear an automated message with options.
  • Your call is routed to your local Lifeline crisis center. Please don't hang up.
  • You may have to wait while your crisis counselor helps others. Again, please don't hang up.
  • Your crisis counselor will listen, support, and share resources.

Please watch this 40-second video explaining what happens when you call 988.

Text

  • Text 988.
  • Complete a survey to let the crisis counselor know a little about your current situation.
  • Your crisis counselor will listen, support, and share resources.

Please watch this 30-second video about texting 988.

Chat

  • Visit 988lifeline.org and click on CHAT in the upper right corner of the website.
  • Complete a survey to let the crisis counselor know a little about your current situation.
  • Your crisis counselor will listen, support, and share resources.

Please watch this 30-second video about chatting with the 988 Lifeline website.

There Is Hope 

And the Lifeline really works. Most Lifeline callers are significantly more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking to a Lifeline crisis counselor.

Almost 98% of people who call, chat, or text the 988 Lifeline get the crisis support they need and do not require additional services in that moment.