Hoffman Encourages Residents to Know About New 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

BELLEVILLE, Ill. – State Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, wants residents to understand that help is a call or text away under the recently launched 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

“If you or someone you know is going through a crisis, it’s okay to ask for help,” Hoffman said. “Many people may feel unsure about where to turn to, which is why this 988 system is so important. This is a critical phone number that can help save the life of you or someone close to you. It’s important to know it.”

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a national network composed of local crisis centers that provide free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, seven days a week across the United States. The new 988 number is modeled after 911 to be simple and easy to remember, and is intended to replace the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Please note that 1-800-273-TALK will continue to function indefinitely despite the launch of 988 to ensure everyone receives access to the care they need.

For more information, please visit 988lifeline.org.

“I am appreciative of those who are working these phone lines and putting in the work to help others in their most difficult moments,” Hoffman said. “This is not easy work, and it’s important that we support them. I’m glad to see this new system launched, and am optimistic of the positive impact it will have on lives across our country.”