An op-ed by Hannah Wesolowski, NAMI CAO, looks at how 988 is improving access to help for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or a mental health crisis. SAMHSA estimated that 988 contact volume would more than double the first year. The latest data for August 2022 shows the number of contacts to 988 increased 45% over August 2021. That’s 152,000 more people getting help when they need it most. 988 connects people with trained crisis counselors who can actively engage callers and resolve many crises over the phone. This reduces the need for an in-person response. The average answer rates are increasing, with 20 states answering more than 90% of in-state calls in August compared to just seven states in January 2022.
