Newsletter: Spread the Word, 988 is Saving Lives
Dear friends,
One year ago, the 988 mental health lifeline officially went live in all fifty states. Since then, I’m proud to report that 988 has exceeded expectations. Since last July:
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NEARLY FIVE MILLION calls, texts, and messages sent to 988
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200+ independent crisis centers operating, including 6 in Massachusetts
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75% DECREASE in wait time with the answer rate increasing from the low teens to over 90%
- 1,000% INCREASE in text messages sent to 988
Here in Massachusetts, about 180 calls to 988 were answered per day over the last year.
A few years ago, I wrote the bill that created 988, in partnership with a Republican Air Force veteran from Utah, because Americans deserve better access to mental health care. One-in-five adults and one-in-six children experience mental illness each year in the United States. Suicide is currently the second leading cause of death for young people in our country. In 2021, the U.S. lost someone to suicide every 11 minutes.
The very existence of 988 means that we’re talking about mental health more – and more people are getting help because they simply know to dial those simple three digits. Just as we all know to call 911 if our house is on fire, we will soon all know to call 988 if we or our loved ones are experiencing a mental health crisis.
But to get there, we need to spread the word. Year one has been a success, but there is still a lot of work to do, starting with ensuring every American knows this number: 988. Help me spread the word by having conversations with your friends and family, posting on social media, or pick up 988 materials at my office in Salem.
We also need great staff and volunteers to ensure our call centers can expand 988 services. If you’re interested in volunteering, find more information here.
Since the creation of @988Lifeline one year ago, the call for help has been answered and countless lives have been saved.
I was proud to lead the charge on this lifeline and I'm committed to securing sustainable funding to keep 988 functional for all.
— Rep. Seth Moulton (@RepMoulton) June 24, 2023
All the best,
Rep. Seth Moulton