988: Reaching Its Full Potential

Establishment of the 988 number is an important transition from the current 10-digit number of the Lifeline. It serves as the point of entry – the front door – to a larger continuum of care. But it is just the beginning; work must continue to build out a broader crisis services system.

The National Council for Mental Wellbeing has identified six elements that will be key to ensuring a robust crisis care continuum:

• Crisis Call Centers
• 24/7 Mobile Crisis Teams
• Robust Continuum of Care
• Essential Crisis Care Principles and Practices
• Public Awareness and Support
• Federal and State Accountability

Download our guide to learn more.