New Suicide and Crisis Line Goes Live

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can now be accessed by dialing or texting 9-8-8. The new three-digit number will be available 24/7 for anyone experiencing a mental health, suicide, or substance use crisis.

Seven crisis centers in Missouri will be fielding calls from individuals who are dealing with mental or substance abuse issues. Trained crisis specialists will be answering calls, providing support, and referring resources to troubled callers. Specialists also have the ability to dispatch emergency services if needed.

The 9-8-8 is a national hotline number, but each state is in charge of its own crisis centers.

For more information on Missouri’s 9-8-8 system, please visit https://dmh.mo.gov/behavioral-health/988-suicide-and-crisis-lifeline.

Need to talk or get immediate help in a crisis? Help is available. If you or a loved one need assistance, please reach out by calling or texting 9-8-8, or chatting at https://988lifeline.org/.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story