WUSA9: 988 Hotline marks one year of helping people in crisis

Video Screenshot of man answering phone: 988 Hotline Marks One Year of Helping People in Crisis

WUSA9: 988 Hotline marks one year of helping people in crisis

Since the nationwide launch of the 988 Crisis Helpline one year ago, counselors have been helping people in crisis who reach out by text, online chat, or on the phone.

“We’re here to listen, it doesn’t matter if you don’t have all the words right away,” said counselor Nadia. Anonymity is important for both callers and counselors at EveryMind. “We really want to make sure they know we’re that safe space, you’re not going to be judged, we’re not going to call your parents right away and tell them every detail you said, we’re not going to send someone scary, we’re just here to listen.”

Calling 988 is like calling 911 for mental health. You can also text, but it’s completely anonymous and the goal is to be heard....

 

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