DOH’s New National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Number to Go Live July 16

Connecting those in need to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline  (Submitted photo)

Commissioner of Health Justa Encarnacion informs the Virgin Islands community that beginning July 16 a new three-digit dialing code (988) connecting those in need to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline will go live.

The new code makes it easier for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress—whether that is thoughts of suicide, mental health crises, substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress — to receive compassionate, accessible care and support.

Additionally, family and friends can dial 988 if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.

Moving to the new 988 number does not mean the 1-800-273-8255 number goes away. After July 16, using either number will get people to the same services. Veterans, servicemembers and their families can press option 1 for services the same way they did when calling the 1-800-273-8255 number; Spanish speaking individuals can continue to utilize option 2 for assistance.