Starting Saturday, July 16, people in Oregon and nationwide who are experiencing a behavioral health crisis will be able to call, text or chat 988 to get compassionate care and
Starting Saturday, July 16, people in Oregon and nationwide who are experiencing a behavioral health crisis will be able to call, text or chat 988 to get compassionate care and support from trained crisis counselors. The new three-digit 988 number will be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline was established to improve access to crisis services in a way that meets our country's growing suicide and mental health-related crisis care needs. The 988 number is easy to remember, like 911. 988 will be available to help people who are experiencing a range of behavioral health crises, including: thoughts of suicide or self-harm, substance use, or any other kind of behavioral health crisis. People can also dial 988 if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support. "Too many people in Oregon don't have easy, quick access to the support and care they need when facing a mental health crisis," said Oregon Health Authority Di