Mental Health Advocates Warn Not to Call 988

Last month, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline was launched. While many mental health advocates were excited about this change as there was finally an easy-to-remember three-digit number for people to call, many were not as thrilled. Some advocates took to social media to voice concerns about 988 and warn people not to call it, posting: “988 is not friendly. Don’t call it, don’t post it, don’t share it, without knowing the risks.”

What are the risks of calling 988? Police involvement, involuntary treatment at emergency rooms or psychiatric hospitals, and the emotional and financial toll of those experiences. According to others on social media, the hotline sends law enforcement officers to check on people at risk of suicide without their consent and that people, especially from LGBTQIA+ communities and People of Color, may be forced into treatment.

Source: NPR