Suicide Prevention & 988 Resources

What is 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline?

Available 24/7, nationwide support via call, text, or chat.
Confidential and free — no insurance or payment required (SAMHSA).
For suicidal thoughts, mental health or substance use crises, or emotional distress (SAMHSA).

Method	How to Use	What to Expect
Phone Call	Dial 988 from any phone	Connects to a trained, local counselor. You may be prompted to select Veteran (Press 1) or Spanish (Press 2), or simply hit 0 to skip the menu (SAMHSA).
Text Message	Text “988”	Connects via SMS to a counselor trained in emotional support .
Online Chat	Visit 988Lifeline.org	Real-time messaging with counselors .

ASL Video Messaging: Deaf or Hard‑of‑Hearing individuals can connect via videophone service staffed by ASL-fluent crisis workers (SAMHSA).
Spanish & 240+ languages: Support available by calling; select Option 2 for Spanish or request an interpreter (SAMHSA).

Dial 988 for emotional distress, mental health issues, suicidal thoughts, or substance use support.
Dial 911 if there is an immediate threat to life or physical safety (e.g., medical emergency, active violence) (SAMHSA).

Privacy & Confidentiality: Only your number (or IP address online) is visible; personal info is optional (SAMHSA).
Local & Specialized Support: Connects you with local counselors and resources — with special routing options for veterans, the Deaf/HoH, LGBTQ+, and Spanish speakers (SAMHSA).
Immediate Help: Most callers get the support they need without further intervention (about 98% resolution) (SAMHSA).
Cultural Competency: Counselors receive training to support diverse populations (SAMHSA).

988 Partner Toolkit: Free print, social, and radio materials to promote awareness (SAMHSA).
- Fact Sheet & Training: Explains the difference between 988 and 911 — ideal for public education (SAMHSA).
Local Safety Planning: Encourage individuals to prepare ahead:

Save 988 in contacts

Identify trusted people

Know when to call 988 vs. 911

We encourage all residents to save 988, know the differences, and use the service when facing crisis.
Fire personnel and first responders are trained to educate the public and support emotional health.

Always dial 911 if your or someone is in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency.
Dial 988 for emotional, mental health, or substance use crises — help is available any time, anywhere.

This is information is not a substitute for professional care. If you or someone else is in crisis and in immediate danger, call 911.

— Shelbyville Fire Department – Serving & Protecting the Heart of Our Community