Glossary
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 in the U.S. for free, confidential support any time, for a crisis or just to talk to someone.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a free, confidential crisis line in the United States. You can call or text 988, or chat online, any time, day or night. According to the 988 Lifeline (opens in a new tab), it is available 24/7/365, and its counselors help with mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug concerns, or if you just need someone to talk to. You do not have to be suicidal to call.
Useful to know:
- text and chat are available in Spanish as well as English;
- in New York City, NYC 988 (opens in a new tab) is the city's part of the national network, offering free counseling and peer support by phone, text or chat;
- another option is the Crisis Text Line (opens in a new tab): text HOME to 741741, or AYUDA for Spanish.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Grief can be overwhelming, especially after a sudden loss, and reaching out is a sign of strength. If you are worried about a grieving child or teen, the AAP (opens in a new tab) points families to 988 too. See where to find grief support and when grief doesn't ease.
What you can do today: save 988 in your phone's contacts, and in your teen's.