On September 8, 2023, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMSHA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the launching of nationwide direct video calling to 988 for consumers fluent in American Sign Language (ASL). The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides counseling services for individuals looking for help with suicide, mental health and substance use-related crises. Individuals who use videophones and are fluent in ASL may call 988 directly as well as through their Video Relay Service.
The 988 Lifeline is a network of more than 200 state and local call centers. Since July 16, 2022, the public may text or call by voice to 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. 988 is a simple, easy-to-remember number that can help save lives. For 988 on videophone, people dial 988 directly into the videophone.
Press Release:
General information about 988 and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available at www.fcc.gov/988 or https://988lifeline.org/help-yourself/for-deaf-hard-of-hearing/. For further information, please contact Michelle Sclater, Competition Policy Division, Wireline Competition Bureau, at (202) 418-0388 or Michelle.Sclater@fcc.gov. Individuals who use videophones and are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) may call the FCC’s ASL Consumer Support Line at (844) 432-2275 (videophone).