Infographic with different facts about contacting the 988 Lifeline and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline logo. Details of the infographic are: When you contact 988: You don’t have to say who you are or where you are. You will get support from a trained crisis counselor. Call or text 988, or chat 988Lifeline.org. There is hope.

988 Crisis Line

Waterford USD

September 1, 2023

September is suicide prevention month. 

Did you know that suicide is one of the top causes of death for young people? 

If you or someone you know needs support now, call or text 988 or chat 988Lifeline.org. The 988 crisis line connects you with a trained crisis counselor who can help.

You can be a lifeline and help support them. Here are five steps you can take that are known to help:

  1. Ask: Are you thinking about suicide? How do you hurt? How can I help?
  2. Be there: In person or on the phone. Show support. Listen. Keep promises to connect.
  3. Help keep them safe: if the person in crisis is suicidal, details matter; do they have a plan, or ideas about timing or method? You can call 988 to support their crisis care.
  4. Help them connect: When someone is in crisis, connecting them with ongoing supports can help establish a safety net. Remind them they can call, text, or chat 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor 24/7.
  5. Follow up: After the immediate crisis is over, check in. That text or call afterwards makes a real difference.