How the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Can Support Domestic Violence Victims
The United States’ first nationwide three-digit 988 mental health crisis hotline went live in July 2022. Although the hotline has existed for years, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for greater access to mental health support, and now there is an easy-to-remember number.
About 988
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 988 offers 24/7 immediate and confidential access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing mental health-related distress such as thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress. In addition, people can call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for themselves or if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.
When someone calls 988, they will be connected to a trained crisis counselor who will listen to them, work to understand how their problem is affecting them, provide support, and connect the caller with resources.
988 and Domestic Violence
The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office on Women’s Health, states that long-term mental health effects of violence against women can include post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. And according to the American Psychological Association, survivors of intimate partner violence are twice as likely to attempt suicide multiple times.
Across the field, there is hope the new 988 hotline will help many victims in crisis and who are having mental health issues or suicidal thoughts. Also, domestic support organizations anticipate an increase in referrals from the line.
Over time, it is expected that 988 will serve as an alternative to 911 for mental health emergencies and transform how mental health crises are responded to and understood.
