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Text reads: Live your life. 988.

988

988 is your connection to free, confidential crisis counseling, mental health and substance use support, information and referrals. You can reach the toll-free help line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone, text and online chat. Behavioral health professionals there can link you to the services you need.

To contact 988:

988 counselors are available 24/7. They can provide support in over 200 languages over the phone. Text and chat support is available in English and Spanish.

Health insurance is not required. Depending on your phone/text service, you may be charged a fee.

When to Contact 988

One in five New Yorkers suffer from a mental health problem or substance use disorder, and too many go untreated. Mental illness and substance use disorders are both treatable, but only if those in need can connect to care. 988 is an easy starting point for New Yorkers to find mental health and substance use support.

988 could help you or someone you know if you are:

  • Worried about the negative impact drugs or alcohol are having.
  • Feeling stressed, overwhelmed and struggling with daily activities.
  • Looking for mental health or substance use providers in your area.
  • Having thoughts about hurting or killing yourself.
  • Concerned about changes in the behavior of someone you care about.

Services

988's counselors and peer specialists are trained to listen to you and provide the following services:

  • Short-term counseling
  • Suicide prevention and other crisis intervention
  • Peer support
  • Information and referral

Short-term Counseling

Short-term counseling can provide support, coping strategies, and techniques for maintaining healthy living while you wait to receive longer-term care. Short-term counseling can vary in frequency and length depending on the need.

Suicide Prevention and Other Crisis Intervention

988 may conduct risk assessments to determine the appropriate crisis intervention service, including:

Peer Support

Peer Support Specialists have been trained to use their own experiences with mental illness and behavioral health care to support others through difficult or crisis situations. Peer Support Specialists provide appropriate, compassionate and effective support, crisis diversion and information and referral. This service is intended for callers who specifically request peer support or otherwise may benefit from the service.

Information and Referral

988 will provide information and referrals for a variety of mental health and substance use services. Referrals are determined based on the specific needs of the individual — including the most convenient location, language needs and insurance requirements.

Additional Resources

More Information