May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the importance of mental wellness for ourselves and our loved ones. Did you know that Ohio offers an important and accessible resource available to anyone in need of support? The 988 – the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a free, confidential service is available 24/7 for anyone experiencing emotional distress, mental health challenges, or a substance use crisis.
What is 988 – the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline?
988 establishes a direct link to empathetic, easily accessible care and support for individuals facing emotional distress, such as thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis, or concern for a friend or family member. Ohio’s 988 plan is an integral component of the state’s broader commitment to delivering high-quality, person-centered crisis aid in communities statewide.
Who is 988 for?
988 is a valuable support tool for:
- People with our without disabilities, who may be navigating challenges
- Caregivers, who may be struggling
- Anyone looking for support to balance their work, home and social responsibilities
How 988 works
When someone calls or texts 988, they are connected with a trained crisis counselor who listens, offers support, and helps connect them to appropriate services if needed. This service is available to everyone!
Please keep this number visible and don’t hesitate to share it with others who may need it. Mental health matters, and seeking help is a sign of strength.
Find help and mental health resources
Call – Text – or Chat. Let’s continue to look out for one another — because no one should have to face a crisis alone. Learn more at Ohio’s Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services website. Download these resource guides for yourself or for someone you care about.
