The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has launched a new dialing code (988) for people in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress or their loved ones to connect to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for free and confidential support from trained crisis response professionals 24 hours a day.
The existing Lifeline phone number, 1-800-273-8255, will also remain available. In addition, callers can be connected with the Veterans Crisis Line or get assistance in Spanish.
A fact sheet on the new dialing code is available from the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.
Pennsylvania AHEC offers free adult and youth Mental Health First Aid training to providers and staff in primary care offices and other organizations serving Pennsylvania’s vulnerable populations. Contact Pennsylvania AHEC to request Mental Health First Aid training for your organization.