Officials say 98% of people get help they need via suicide hotline 988

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Almost a year after the National Suicide Hotline Number was changed to 988, officials are saying it’s been doing a good job.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services says up to 98% of people who call or text the number will receive help and won’t need additional support.

The Nebraska chapter of the National Foundation for Suicide Prevention said it’s hoping the new number is easier to remember and more approachable for those who need help.

“We wouldn’t think twice about calling 911 with a medical emergency, so we ought to be thinking the same thing with a mental health crisis or a mental health emergency,” board Chair Jennifer Sparrock said. “And truly, it doesn’t even have to be an emergency; it can be someone who is just struggling and needs someone to talk to.”

Despite the success, a new poll from the National Alliance on Mental Illness shows that more than 80% of U.S. adults are still not familiar with 988.

Officials say there’s been some worries that when you call the number, police will automatically get involved, but that’s not the case.

Amber Dirks, senior director of community response with behavioral health provider CenterPointe, said that the number is a completely separate function from 911 and that authorities will only be contacted if there’s a safety concern.

In Lincoln, CenterPointe serves as one of the mobile crisis response teams that will take calls and meet anyone who needs in-person support.

“Once we’re out there, we do screen people for suicide, we’ll do risk assessment, counseling on access to lethal means, safety planning,” Dirks said. “But then also really focus on what they need, whether that’s coping, maybe some resources, and trying to get them connected to the appropriate services if they need ongoing support.”

Dirks and Sparrock agree that the more we discuss mental health and suicide, the easier it is for people to get help.

Sparrock said if you’re worried about someone but aren’t sure what the right thing to say is, you can also call 988 to ask for advice.

She said you can also suggest calling together.

“That way it doesn’t feel so scary for that person that they have to call this number by themselves,” Sparrock said.

This fall, Out of the Darkness walks will be taking place in Omaha, Beatrice and Columbus to further spread awareness and provide supports for those participating.

If you or someone you know needs help, you can call or text 988 from anywhere in the country.