Student Resources

9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Hotline

People in Illinois and nationwide may dial 9-8-8 for someone to talk to if they are having

a mental health emergency. The phone number will be answered by call centers in the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL) network, which has existed since 2005. 988 is for all kinds of mental health crises, not just suicide. 988’s primary role will be to provide emotional support during a crisis. Unlike 911, it’s not primarily a dispatch service. Experts predict more than 80% of 988 calls will require phone support only.