988 and the Lifeline We All Deserve: Honoring Connection, Hope, and Help

988 and the Lifeline We All Deserve: Honoring Connection, Hope, and Help

By: Ron Henson, LPC

In moments of crisis, time and connection can mean everything. When fear creeps in, when the weight feels too heavy to carry, or when you just do not know what to do next, having someone on the other end of the line can be the difference between despair and hope. That is what 988 was created for.

As we recognize the anniversary of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, it is worth pausing to understand where it came from, why it matters, and how it can continue to save lives.

Where 988 Came From

Before 988, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline was accessible at a longer ten-digit number, which many people struggled to remember in moments of emotional crisis. In response, mental health advocates, government leaders, and health organizations came together to create a simpler, easier-to-remember number: 988.

Launched in July 2022, 988 functions much like 911, but instead of dispatching police or emergency services for medical emergencies, 988 connects callers to trained mental health professionals who are equipped to handle emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, substance use, and other mental health struggles.

What Happens When You Call or Text 988?

When you call 988, you are greeted by a trained crisis counselor who listens, offers support, and helps connect you to resources. There is no judgment and no pressure. The goal is safety, compassion, and support.

If you text 988, the process is similar. You are connected to someone who is there to help, not lecture. You do not have to explain everything perfectly. You do not even need to know what to say. You can simply say, “I need help,” and someone will walk with you through it.

Why This Matters So Much

Suicidal ideation is more common than most people realize. Many of us, at some point in our lives, either experience it personally or know someone who has. It can show up quietly or hit like a storm. It can stem from grief, trauma, illness, isolation, or feelings of hopelessness. No matter how it arrives, it deserves care and attention.

988 offers a doorway to hope. It tells people that they are not alone, that someone is available day or night to take their pain seriously.

And perhaps just as important, it gives friends, family, and loved ones a place to turn when they do not know how to help. If you are scared for someone in your life, you can call 988 and receive guidance on how to support them.

Helping Yourself or Someone You Love

When someone you care about is struggling, it can feel terrifying. You might not know what to say or do. But you do not need to have all the answers. Here are some ways to start:

Let them know you are there. Even simple words like “I am here for you” or “You do not have to go through this alone” can matter.
Listen without trying to fix. Allow space for their feelings.
Avoid minimizing or offering quick solutions. Focus on connection.
If they are open to it, encourage them to call or text 988.
If they are in immediate danger, do not hesitate to get help.

If you are the one in pain, please know that your life matters. Your story is not over. The fact that you are here reading this is already proof of your courage.

Other Crisis Resources Worth Knowing

While 988 is a powerful tool, there are other lines that specialize in different needs. Here are a few to keep in your pocket or share with someone else:

The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ youth support): Text START to 678-678 or call 1-866-488-7386
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for support from a trained crisis counselor
Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 and press 1
Trans Lifeline: 877-565-8860
Postpartum Support International: 1-800-944-4773 or text HELP to 800-944-4773

Every one of these exists because your mental health matters. There is no shame in reaching out.

Moving Forward Together

Mental health is not about weakness. It is about being human. Life gets overwhelming sometimes. No one should have to face those moments alone. The creation of 988 is a reminder that even in our darkest hours, connection is possible.

As we honor the anniversary of 988, let us celebrate what it represents: a growing movement to make mental health care more accessible, more compassionate, and more human.

If you or someone you know needs help, please use the tools available. Share them. Save them. You never know when that simple act could save a life.