Department of Health: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, one-year anniversary

Rising number of calls underlines the need for and importance of 988

Washington is celebrating the one-year anniversary of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline this month. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is the nationwide, three-digit dialing code that connects anyone experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, or those seeking help for a loved one, with a trained counselor. It’s free, confidential, and available 24/7/365.

Washington was the first state to pass legislation in 2021 to implement the 988 Lifeline and is among only a few states using it as more than just a crisis hotline. The bill also established dedicated funding to create a system that will allow designated 988 contact hubs to dispatch crisis units or directly connect callers to local providers, even helping to schedule appointments.

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Click here to read DDA's Care Provider Bulletin on Suicide Among People with Disabilities.