Launch of New 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Announced by Louisiana Department of Health

Louisiana – The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) announced on July 18, 2022, the launch of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — a new 3-digit number that will replace the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline to make it easier for people to receive help during a mental health crisis.

The previous 10-digit number answered millions of calls and saved thousands of lives. Now, 988 will be the same dependable resource for those dealing with suicidal ideation, substance abuse, or other mental health issues. People can also call 988 if they are concerned about a loved one who may require immediate crisis assistance.

When you call, text, or chat 988, you will be connected to trained, compassionate crisis counselors who will listen to your concerns, offer support, and link you to local resources. The chat feature will also be accessible via the Lifeline website. All calls are kept strictly confidential. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“It is so important that we have resources in place to help people when they need it most and having a lifeline like this one is vital,” said Gov. John Bel Edwards. “Tragically, Louisiana experienced more than 600 suicides in 2020 and nationally there is a death by suicide every 11 minutes. This is a serious problem and being able to text or chat with a trained and compassionate crisis counselor who can listen, provide support and connect people with local resources is going to make it easier for anyone to receive assistance during a mental health crisis. There is never any shame in reaching out for help and everyone needs help at some point in their lives. This is a very safe place to get that support.”

“One in five people above the age of 12 has a mental health condition in the U.S.,” said LDH Secretary Dr. Courtney N. Phillips. “If you need help, know that you are not alone. It’s OK to not be OK. Mental health impacts everyone and we need to make sure those who need help have access to it. This important initiative will make it easier for more residents to access critical mental health services when they need it most. A year in the making, Louisiana stands ready to join the nation for this launch.”

Suicide was the 12th leading cause of death in the United States in 2020, and the third leading cause of death for young people aged 15 to 24 in the same year, according to the CDC.

The Office of Behavioral Health (OBH) of the LDH has contracted with two certified call centers to handle 988 calls throughout the state. The Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling, which is based in Bossier City, will answer calls in area codes 318 and 337, which cover north, central, and southwest Louisiana. VIA LINK, based in New Orleans, will answer calls from area codes 504, 225, and 985 in southeast Louisiana.

The program will be funded with approximately $2.5 million in existing state and federal grant dollars.

Anyone with questions can email OBH at [email protected]. You can also visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website.