988 is the new three-digit number that connects people to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, where compassionate, accessible care and support are available for anyone experiencing mental health–related distress. People can use 988 if they are having thoughts of suicide, mental health or addiction concerns, or any other kind of emotional distress. People can also dial 988 if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.
Moving to the easy-to-remember, three-digit number will provide greater access to life-saving services, and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) has been planning for this transition over the last 18 months to ensure Ohio is ready for 988. In Franklin County, 988 is supported by a network of mental health providers that will connect someone to local resources, including North Central Mental Health, Netcare Access and Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
For more information about 988 in Ohio, go to mha.ohio.gov/988.
For more information about the national implementation of 988, go to https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988.
