Reaching the National Prevention Lifeline will be as easy as dialing 988 by summer of 2022, when the simplified number launches.
To help prepare for that, Pennsylvania has received $340,000 for planning and infrastructure prior to the July 2022 launch.
Several Wstern Pennsylvania call centers are among those receiving a portion of the funds to prepare for increased call volume. They include:
Center for Community Resources in Butler
Safe Harbor Behavioral Health in Erie
Resolve Crisis Services in Pittsburgh
Chestnut Ridge Counseling Services in Uniontown
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“When a person is experiencing a crisis or suicidal ideation, quick response is critical to providing support. Transitioning the Lifeline to 988 will ease access for people in crisis and anyone looking to help and will save valuable time and lives,” said Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Teresa Miller.
“This funding enables DHS and our partners to prepare for implementation and build capacity to support this eased access and bring together suicide prevention and crisis support networks so callers know that no matter what they are going through, they do not have to experience and overcome it alone.”
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If you know someone sstruggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, help is available now.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
The Spanish-language National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-888-628-9454
For the Mental Health Crisis Text Line: Text PA to 74174
Persevere PA Support and Referral Helpline: 1-855-284-2494. For TTY, dial 724-631-5600.
TrevorLifeline for LGBTQ individuals: 866-488-7386
Trans Helpline: 877-565-8860