This past Sunday marked the one-year anniversary of 988, the new three-digit suicide prevention line. 988 provides a direct connection to trained, compassionate, accessible care and support for anyone experiencing suicidal, substance use, and/or mental health-related crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress. 988 is available 24/7 and is a free service available to anyone experiencing a mental health-related crisis.
“988 is a vital resource in Nebraska and across our nation,” said Tony Green, Interim Director of the Division of Behavioral Health at the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). “It is important to remember that no matter your situation, you are not alone, and that help is available and effective.”
DHHS was awarded the 2023 Transformation Transfer Initiative (TTI) through the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD) with a focus on workforce development. The goal of this grant is to develop training for crisis response team members to ensure they have the best tools and skills needed to assist individuals in a crisis.
There will be a focus in the upcoming year of increasing marketing efforts to spread the word about 988. We need your help, please share information about 988 with your colleagues, friends, and family, post 988 information on your website or in your offices and lobbies, and hand out 988 wallet cards. You can find these materials on our 988 Nebraska website: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/988.aspx. You can also order materials through SAMHSA at https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988/partner-toolkit.
Need to talk or get immediate help in a crisis? Help is available. If you or a loved one need assistance, please reach out to:
- The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline; call, text, or chat 988
- Your faith-based leader, healthcare professional, or student health center on campus.
- Nebraska Family Helpline – Any question, any time. (888) 866-8660
- Rural Response Hotline, (800) 464-0258
- Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 (oprime dos para Español) or text TalkWithUs to 66746.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22522
- National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4AChild (1-800-422-4453) or text 1-800-422-4453
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
