The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline on Wednesday encouraged people facing mental health struggles, emotional distress or concerns about alcohol or drug use to reach out for support, saying life’s challenges can sometimes be difficult. The message appeared on the lifeline’s Facebook page.
988 is the three-digit, nationwide crisis number launched in July 2022 to provide easier access to suicide prevention and crisis services. The lifeline connects callers, texters and chat users to trained crisis counselors and local resources, offering confidential support for people in distress.
Experts and advocates say low-barrier access to crisis services can reduce barriers to help and provide timely intervention for people experiencing suicidal thoughts or severe emotional distress. People in immediate danger should contact local emergency services.
The Facebook post did not include additional details about changes to services or hours. We will provide more information as it becomes available.
Jon Ross Myers founded Mississippi News Group in 2013. Before founding the organization, he worked at The Daily Mississippian, The Marion Salute and The Southern Sentinel. A Mississippi journalist and writer based in Ripley, he received second place in poetry in the 2025 William Faulkner Literary Competition for "The Garden."
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