The 988 Crisis Lifeline: America's Best-Kept Lifesaving Secret

And here’s another surprising figure: Only 1 in 5 Americans are familiar with this life-saving number, according to a poll released in July by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, or NAMI. The organization discovered that while many people have at least heard of 988, its exact purpose remains a mystery to most.

Since the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline rolled out across the U.S. in July 2022, the lifesaving service has fielded over 4 million calls — that’s an incredible 40% increase over the previous year. 

According to NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr., “If we genuinely want to save lives, 988 can’t be our little secret.” He emphasizes the importance of spreading the word about this resource, highlighting its potential to transform the way we support people in crisis.

That aligns exactly with the mission of The 988 Awareness Project. Our name says it all: We’re dedicated to spreading awareness about the 988 number, a simple but powerful mission that drives our teen-led organization.

But based on the results of the NAMI poll, we still have plenty of work to do. In addition, 988’s contact estimates are set to soar to 9 million by 2024 (which represents a 50% rise), which means this is a situation that no one can afford to ignore. 

There’s some good news to celebrate, too: Most notably, that trust in 988 seems to be growing. The same NAMI poll found that 58% of Americans have some level of trust in 988’s ability to assist someone in need, while 22% trust it wholeheartedly. That’s progress we can definitely build upon.

And our collective call to action is clear: We must prioritize raising awareness about 988, and equally, its funding. That’s something people can get behind: In fact, half of the Americans polled believe Congress should consider funding the 988 lifeline a top priority. Furthermore, 62% feel that mental health care, in general, should be given prime importance. 

Yet, even with such overwhelming public support, there are alarming rumblings in Congress about potential funding cuts for 988. Hannah Wesolowski, NAMI’s Chief Advocacy Officer, warns that going back to 2022’s funding levels might severely hamper the progress that we’ve all made.

Which is why The 988 Awareness Project remains dedicated to raising awareness about the 988 number, and what it’s all about: ensuring that every individual facing a mental health crisis has someone to talk to, someone who responds, and a safe haven.