Life Kit What is 988? And is it safe to call? What to know about the new mental health hotline
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Aug 25, 2022 Aneri Patani, a national health correspondent with Kaiser Health News, dives into the newly launched 988 mental health hotline. She discusses its vital role in connecting individuals in crisis with trained professionals while addressing concerns about accessibility and safety. Patani highlights the risks involved, especially regarding police involvement and the experiences of marginalized communities. She emphasizes the need for better resources to improve effectiveness, ensuring every caller can get the support they truly need.
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988 Lifeline Overview
- 988 is a new three-digit hotline for mental health emergencies, intended as an alternative to 911.
- It aims to connect people with trained counselors who can de-escalate crises and provide resources.
988 Call Centers
- While 988 is separate from 911, it may involve police in select circumstances.
- Call centers across the country employ trained counselors, not necessarily licensed clinicians, to handle calls.
Who Can Call 988?
- Anyone can call 988, including those concerned about someone else.
- It's not just for suicidal crises, but for any mental health emergency or general concerns.