On July 16, 2022,  988 will become the nationwide 3-digit dialing code for crisis and suicide prevention.

It will replace the 1-800 number currently used by the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. On this date, when someone calls 988 all phones in the U.S. (mobile and landline) will connect with the crisis/suicide prevention system. This will allow anyone in the U.S. to call 988 and get help designed specifically for someone dealing with a mental health crisis.

In an effort to inform as many people as we can about the 988 system in New Jersey, Assistant Commissioner Valerie Mielke of the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services has created a 988 presentation that will provide you with an overview.

Please click on the link below to watch Assistant Commissioner Mielke's presentation. Should you have questions after you watch this presentation, please write to this email address: 

988Questions@dhs.nj.gov

The Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services is eager to begin this new journey in July with all other U.S. States and Territories. We hope the presentation will shed some light on the plans for this life-saving system as it evolves in New Jersey.

988 Presentation

988 Overview PowerPoint (printable)

New! 988 Update (6-9-22) PowerPoint (printable)