On July 16, 2022,  988 will become the nationwide 3-digit dialing code for crisis and suicide prevention. It will replace the 1-800 number currently used by the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. On this date, when someone calls 988 all phones in the U.S. (mobile and landline) will connect with the crisis/suicide prevention system. This will allow anyone in the U.S. to call 988 and get help designed specifically for someone dealing with a mental health crisis.

In an effort to inform as many people as we can about the 988 system in New Jersey, Assistant Commissioner Valerie Mielke of the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services has created a 988 presentation that will provide you with an overview.

Please watch Assistant Commissioner Mielke’s presentation. Should you have questions after you watch this presentation, please write to our direct email address: 988Questions@dhs.nj.gov.

Please create and use the safety plan with your support system when you’re having unpleasant thoughts

For additional information, please check out this website https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmhas/initiatives/988/?utm_campaign=20220708_nwsltr_a&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery