988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a free and confidential service for those who are seeking help when they feel like there is nowhere to turn. 988 can be reached by text, chat or dialed toll-free from anywhere in the United States 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Trained crisis center staff are available to listen to your needs and offer:
- Crisis counseling
- Suicide intervention
- Mental health referral information
You are not alone. They are there to listen and to help you find your way back to a happier, healthier life. Who should call?
- Anyone, but especially those who feel sad, hopeless, or suicidal.
- Family and friends who are concerned about a loved one who may be experiencing these feelings.
- Anyone interested in suicide prevention, treatment, and service referrals.
How Can You Help Someone?
If you know someone who you think may be suicidal, show that you care by:
- Listening to the person with sincere concern for his/her feelings. Do not offer advice, but let the person know that he/she is not alone.
- Sharing your feelings with the person. If you feel that he/she may make a reckless decision, say that you are concerned. This person needs to know that he/she is important to you and that you care.
- Inquiring – in a straightforward and caring manner – if he/she has had suicidal thoughts or has made a suicidal plan. If you feel you cannot ask the question, find someone who can.
Suicide Warning Signs
- Threatening to hurt or kill oneself or talking about wanting to hurt or kill oneself.
- Looking for ways to kill oneself by seeking access to firearms, available pills, or other means.
- Talking or writing about death, dying, or suicide when these actions are out of the ordinary for the person.
- Feeling hopeless.
- Feeling rage or uncontrolled anger or seeking revenge.
- Acting recklessly or engaging in risky activities – seemingly without thinking.
- Feeling trapped – like there’s no way out.
- Increased alcohol or drug use.
- Withdrawing from friends,
family and society. - Feeling anxious or agitated, being unable to sleep, or sleeping all the time.
- Experiencing dramatic mood changes.
- Seeing no reason for living or having no sense of purpose in life.