Vibrant Emotional Health (Vibrant), a leading mental health organization and the administrator of the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988 Lifeline) and Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) has achieved significant milestones since transitioning to the nationwide three-digit dialing code in July 2022. Supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the 988 Lifeline has expanded to over 200 state and local call centers, profoundly impacting the mental health landscape.

A Lifeline for Millions

Since its inception two years ago, the 988 Lifeline has handled 10 million calls, texts, and chats related to suicide, mental health, and substance use crises. Notably, 1.7 million were texts, marking a significant 51% increase in text responses over the past year. This increase reflects the progress and modernization of Vibrant's 988 Lifeline service, making it more accessible and convenient for those in crisis.

"On the second anniversary of the 988 Lifeline, we are proud to announce that we have answered over 10 million contacts," said Tia Dole, Ph.D., Chief 988 Lifeline Officer at Vibrant Emotional Health. "As the administrator of the 988 Lifeline, we recognize the critical need to address America's ongoing mental health crisis. With our network of more than 200 crisis centers, we are committed to improving the way individuals reach out for care and support, ensuring that help is accessible when it is needed most."

Expanding Access and Inclusivity

On July 16, 2022, the U.S. launched 988 as an easy-to-remember number for crisis support. Investments at multiple levels have enabled states, territories, and tribes to hire more crisis counselors, ensure a robust national backup system, and expand services. In 2023, the 988 Lifeline introduced several key service enhancements:

• Spanish Text and Chat Options: Spanish speakers can now connect directly with crisis counselors in Spanish.
• Specialized Services for LGBTQI+ Youth and Young Adults: LGBTQI+ youth can access trained counselors by texting "Pride" to 988 or selecting option 3 when calling.
• Videophone Support for American Sign Language (ASL) Users: ASL users now have videophone support in times of crisis.

Since these expansions, 988 Lifeline counselors have answered approximately 20,000 Spanish-language chats and texts, over 475,000 contacts from LGBTQI+ youth and young adults, and about 20,000 videophone contacts in ASL. This expansion, rooted in our commitment to inclusivity, has significantly improved Vibrant's ability to provide specialized support to these communities, helping them feel included, valued, and respected.

A Collaborative Effort

As we celebrate the second anniversary of the 988 Lifeline, Vibrant acknowledges the countless advocates who have amplified our mission and enabled millions of help seekers to receive the services they need through this extraordinary resource. We are deeply grateful for the hands and hearts of the people at 988 Lifeline centers, mental health partners, and colleagues at Vibrant. Your unwavering support and dedication have enabled us to reach so many more people and advocate for a world where all individuals feel valued and respected, are treated with dignity, and have equitable access to mental health care.

Continuing the Momentum

Looking ahead, we are committed to building on this momentum. The successes of the 988 Lifeline are a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and unwavering dedication to mental health. As we continue to expand and enhance our services, we are excited about the future and the many more lives we can touch and transform.

For more information on how you can support equitable mental wellness in your community, please visit our website at www.vibrant.org/PublicPolicy. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those in need.

Click here to read Vibrant's press release celebrating this prestigious milestone.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.