Full Notification

The Federal Communications Commission has designated 988 as the new three-digit dialing code that routes callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This easy-to-remember number became available to everyone in New Hampshire and across the United States on July 16.

When people call, text or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network. These counselors will listen, provide support and connect them to necessary resources. The option to call 988 will not replace current crisis services, New Hampshire Rapid Response, which became effective on January 1, 2022. New Hampshire Rapid Response continues to provide mental health crisis services via phone, text and chat for children, youth and adults in New Hampshire who may be experiencing a mental health or substance misuse crisis. New Hampshire Rapid Response is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can deploy mobile crisis teams to meet people with more intensive needs, right in their communities.

The 988 crisis line will be able to:
— Connect a person in a mental health crisis to a trained counselor who can address their immediate needs and help connect them to ongoing care.
— Reduce use of law enforcement, public health, and other safety resources.
— Meet the growing need for crisis intervention.
— Help end stigma of seeking or accessing mental healthcare.

Remember that when you have a police, fire or medical emergency, call 911. When you have an urgent mental health need, call 988.