Introducing 988: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
9/30/2022
On July 16, Nebraska rolled out the new 988 suicide prevention lifeline. It is patterned after 911 and gives callers a simple, easy-to-remember number to dial for assistance during a mental health crisis. While it can be hard to start conversations about mental health, talking about mental illness can be lifesaving. It is never too early to seek assistance for mental health concerns – either for yourself or someone you love.
If you suspect someone may be thinking about ending his/her life, it's okay to talk to that person about it. You can also dial 988 if you're concerned about a loved one who may need crisis support. The new lifeline number, 988, provides a direct connection to trained, compassionate counselors for anyone experiencing mental distress or thoughts of suicide. Support is available 24/7 and calls are free and confidential.
Nebraska also has highly trained, mobile crisis response teams working around the clock throughout the state. These teams will cooperate closely with 988 counselors to follow up on calls made to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline. These mobile crisis teams include clinicians who can conduct home visits or make telehealth connections to assist Nebraskans.
If you have questions about Nebraska's work to provide access to mental healthcare, please call 402-471-2244. If you'd like to assist in publicizing 988, there is a toolkit available that can be downloaded at dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/988.aspx. Together, let's check in on the mental health of our loved ones and spread the word about the 988 service.
~Information taken from an article written by Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts in the August 2022 Publication of the "Nebraska Municipal Review", column entitled "The Commentary", pages 6-7; September 30, 2022.