Xavier Becerra United States Secretary of Health and Human Services | Official Website
Since its launch on July 16, 2022, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has answered over 10 million calls, texts, and chats from individuals experiencing mental health or substance use crises. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced this milestone today. HHS has invested nearly $1.5 billion into the lifeline as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s strategy to address these national crises.
“Thanks to unprecedented federal funding provided by the Biden-Harris Administration, we’re connecting more people to help than ever before,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. “We’re connecting them faster and with more personalized services, which are critical for helping people in crisis. We know that 988 is saving lives and helping millions of people. I hope anyone who feels alone or that they are without options knows that 988 is there to help.”
HHS Deputy Secretary Andrea Palm emphasized the administration's commitment: “The Biden-Harris Administration remains committed to transforming our behavioral health system and reducing rates of suicide across the country. At the heart of our strategy is 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.”
Since its inception, counselors have managed over 10 million contacts related to suicidal thoughts and mental health issues, including nearly 1.7 million texts—a 51% increase in text responses compared to last year.
The Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) has been a significant component of this service, answering almost 1.2 million calls through the "Press 1" option within the lifeline framework since July 2022. Overall, veterans have reached out over two million times via phone, online chat, and text.
“Our Veterans Crisis Line connects veterans to caring, qualified responders 24/7,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough.
In addition to call support centers nationwide providing assistance around-the-clock through various communication methods like phone calls and chats, significant investments have allowed states, territories, and tribes to enhance local response capabilities by hiring crisis counselors.
In recent developments for inclusivity in communication methods:
- Spanish-language text and chat services were added.
- Specialized services for LGBTQI+ youth.
- Videophone access for American Sign Language users was introduced.
Georouting technology will soon improve connectivity for cell phone users by routing calls based on their approximate physical location rather than area code—a move expected later this year after collaboration between HHS and major U.S. wireless carriers.
“This milestone shines a light on the need for vital behavioral health services across the country,” stated FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel.
HHS Assistant Secretary Dr. Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon highlighted how many lives have been positively impacted by reaching out through 988: “Many people are thriving and leading fulfilling lives today because they reached out and got the help that 988 provides.”
Federal funding under President Biden’s American Rescue Plan supports ongoing efforts toward expanding local capacity for crisis services with an additional $200 million in grants planned for fiscal year 2024.
Studies indicate most callers feel more hopeful after speaking with trained crisis counselors—a testament to the effectiveness of this initiative in transforming mental health care under President Biden’s Unity Agenda aimed at reducing suicide rates nationally.
For those struggling or in crisis: Call or text 988 or visit [988lifeline.org](http://www.988lifeline.org). Further resources can be found at FindSupport.gov or FindTreatment.gov.
Reporters can direct inquiries to media@samhsa.hhs.gov.
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