988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Last month, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) launched as the new three-digit dialing code for anyone experiencing a suicidal or mental-health-related crisis. The goal is to give people easier access to crisis counseling and referrals to resources and additional support through an easy-to-remember and dial number.
When people call, text or chat 988, they are connected with trained counselors that are part of the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network of more than 180 accredited crisis centers. These trained counselors will listen, understand how problems are affecting the individual, provide support, and connect them to additional resources.
The current Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) is still available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis, in addition to the new 988 crisis line.
988 fast facts
- Confidential, free, and available 24/7/365
- Access via land line, cell phone, and voice-over internet device
- Connects those experiencing a mental health, substance use, or suicidal crisis with trained crisis counselors
- Call services are available in Spanish, along with interpretation services in more than 150 languages
Blue KC and the Royals support 988 on Lifeline Day at the K
Blue KC provided local support of the 988 Lifeline on July 23 at Lifeline Day at the K. Together with the Royals, Carl’s Cause, and other local mental health organizations, Blue KC talked to fans and handed out mental health resources. Watch!
Lifeline Day was a natural next step for Blue KC and the Royals. The two organizations already partner on Shut Out the Stigma, an initiative to remove the stigma of mental health. One shutout inning at a time, Shut Out the Stigma raises awareness and donates to organizations that focus on mental health through participation in youth sports. As of the end of July, Shut Out the Stigma had donated $13,470 to local organizations in 2022.
Blue KC member resources
Conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance use often go untreated. As a Blue KC member, you have access to resources included in your health plan, like Mindful by Blue KC, and community resources like the 988 Lifeline.
For more information, visit MindfulBlueKC.com or 988lifeline.org.