NC Department of Health and Human Services recognizes 988 lifeline on its second anniversary

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — This week marks the second anniversary of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

On Monday, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) visited the 988 Call Center in Greenville to show appreciation for the crisis counselors who provide the service.

The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline transitioned from a 10-digit phone number to 988 on July 16, 2022, according to the NCDHHS. In the past two years, 988 crisis counselors have responded to nearly 190,000 calls, texts, and chats, providing access to mental health and substance use crisis support.

The NCDHHS says the number of North Carolina residents contacting 988 each month has nearly doubled in its second year of service.

“The success of 988 is a testament to the fact that, so often, people just need someone to talk to who will support them in their most vulnerable moments,” said Kelly Crosbie, the director of the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services, in a statement. “For many of the thousands of people calling, 988 is a first step to accessing the services and supports they need for long-term healing and recovery.”