Press Guidance: Reporting on 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, is now the easy-to-remember resource for reaching trained crisis counselors who can help with suicide, mental health and substance use-related crises.

Below is press guidance for reporters and others writing about the 988 Lifeline:

  • Suggested news story/movie/television end card language and logo options are available in the 988 Partner Toolkit: “If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.”
  • Factual information about 988 is included in the Substance Use and Mental Health Administration’s (SAMHSA) online 988 FAQ page and Vibrant Emotional Health’s FAQ page.
  • 988 B-roll and soundbites and 988 Call Center B-roll videos are available for download.
  • A 988 partner toolkit includes social media sharables along with other materials/tools and is regularly updated.
  • A national news release provides more information about the July 16 transition to the 3-digit number.
  • A statement about the first week of 988 transition from Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, HHS Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use and leader of SAMHSA.
  • Staffing needs vary at crisis call centers across the country, but in general the need is consistent. We encourage anyone interested in this critical line of work to visit the 988 jobs web page to learn more.
  • Remember and use best practices tips for Reporting on Suicide.

Anyone seeking treatment for mental health conditions should call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 800-662-HELP (4357) or visit findtreatment.samhsa.gov.

Reporters with questions should send inquiries to media@samhsa.hhs.gov.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. SAMHSA’s mission is to lead public health and service delivery efforts that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and provide treatments and supports to foster recovery while ensuring equitable access and better outcomes.

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