Find out when you or someone you know should call the new 988 code, 211 or 911.
988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Line. The option went live on July 16, 2022. The Lifeline is a national network of over 200 local, independent, and state-funded crisis centers equipped to help people in emotional distress or experiencing a suicidal crisis. Moving to 988 will not replace the Lifeline, rather it will be an easier way to access a strengthened and expanded network of crisis call centers. Additionally, Veterans looking to reach the Veterans Crisis Line can also call 988, and press 1 to be connected to a qualified crisis counselor.
When to Contact 211, 911, and 988:
- 988 If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or a loved one, or would like emotional support, call or text 988 or chat at 988Lifeline.org. 988 connects you with a trained crisis counselor who can help.
- 211 If you or someone you know needs help finding local resources, call 211 or text 247-211, or chat at 211virginia.org.
- 911 If it’s an emergency or danger of self-harm seems imminent. call 911.
| 211 Virginia By the Numbers 211 Virginia experienced a record-setting contact volume in May 2022! Contact volume for May was the highest since the inception of our current Automatic Contact Distribution system on July 1, 2010 (the system responsible for routing calls to our Community Resource Specialists). Demand for services is likely the highest since the financial crash in the fall of 2008. The May 2022 queued contacts are nearly double that of May 2021. The unmet needs have been increasing since February due to temporary relief programs ending, unavailability of funds, eligibility criteria not being met, and the demand outpacing the services. Our team constantly monitors agencies and programs reporting expended funds and shortages while adding new agencies and programs to our database. |
What We’re Observing This Month
| National Minority Mental Health Month is observed each year in the month of July to bring awareness to the unique struggles that racial and ethnic minority communities face regarding mental illness in the United States. These struggles include quality of care, access to care, and cultural stigma. The COVID-19 pandemic has made it harder for racial and ethnic minority groups to access mental health and substance use treatment services and further revealed inequalities in health care for communities of color. 211 Virginia provides easy, free, and confidential connections to mental health services and support. We’re here for you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. |
