TAMPA, Fla. — Since the launch of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline one year ago, nearly five million calls, text messages and online chats have been placed through the hotline, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

What You Need To Know

  • On July 16, 2022, the National Suicide Prevention Hotline transition from a 10-digit numer to three

  • The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline gives people access to trained professional when they're experiencing thoughts of suicide or other mental health crises

  • The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay has seen a nearly 215% increase in 988 calls through its call center this year, according to CEO Clara Reynolds

  • You can call or text 988 for confidential support 24/7, 365 days a year

The 10-digit Suicide Prevention Lifeline has been around since 2005, but it was condensed to three digits to make it easy for people to remember, similar to 911. 

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay houses one of the area's 988 call centers. Clara Reynolds, CEO of the Crisis Center, said they've seen a nearly 215% increase in calls so far this year.

"On the emotional side, it saddens that our community is struggling so much," Reynolds said. "But on the other hand, it’s incredible that people are reaching out and asking for help and getting the help that they need."  

More than 9,500 calls have gone through the Crisis Center so far this year, according to Reynolds. The organization brought on more staff to help support the 988 hotline and created a tiered system for calls to handle the volume of calls. 

There are also call center workers specifically trained to help those who may need immediate treatment. Reynolds says 988 is an important resource and feels it's making a difference in people's lives. 

“I think that the stigma of reaching out for mental health is beginning to wane a little bit," she said. "Folks are feeling more comfortable calling because of their behavioral health issues than ever before and I think 988 essentially has normalized this conversation.”

The 988 lifeline is open 24/7, 365 days a year. You can call or text the three-digit number. All communication is kept confidential and you can call for yourself or if you're worried about a loved one. 

Reynolds hopes the hotline reduces the instances of people calling 911 when they need someone specially trained to help them through a mental health crisis. 

“I can almost promise you that the biggest hurdle in this whole system is you just picking up the phone and talking to somebody," Reynold said. "You will be surprised and amazed at how many resources are available, how much better you can feel after just picking up this phone and dialing 988.”

To learn more about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, click here.