988 Suicide and Crisis Line Number Available July 16, 2022

Starting July 16, 2022, New Jerseyans will be able to use 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.  988 will be available for call, text, or chat to those experiencing a mental health-related or suicidal crisis, or those looking to help a loved one through a crisis. The existing Lifeline number, 1-800-273-8255, will continue to be available. 

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available to persons of all abilities, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI).  The Division of Developmental Disabilities, and other governmental Departments, have worked with 988 to provide disability specific service information and other available resources.  This will equip 988 to meet the presenting need of the caller and, as appropriate, connect them with other appropriate resources depending on their unique needs.

Providers rendering services to persons with IDD and/or TBI are reminded that 988 is distinct from 911.  Under Danielle’s Law P.L. 2003, c.191, 911 must continue to be called in any situation where a prudent person could reasonably believe a life threatening emergency exists.  More information on Danielle’s Law can be found here.

For more information about 988, please visit the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline website.  Additionally, a helpful Frequently Asked Questions document for persons with IDD can be found here.