About 988

• 988 will accept calls, texts, and online chats from anyone who needs support for a suicidal, mental health, and/or substance use crisis. People can also contact 988 if they are concerned about a loved one in crisis.
• After July 16, 2022, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline will be accessible through 800-273-8255 and 988. Prior to July 16, 2022, the 988 calling code should not be promoted.
• Wisconsinites who use 988 will connect with Wisconsin Lifeline.

About Wisconsin Lifeline

Since 2020, Family Services of Northeast Wisconsin has received a portion of Wisconsin’s Community Mental Health Block Grant funds to operate Wisconsin Lifeline, the only National Suicide Prevention Lifeline affiliated call center in Wisconsin. Wisconsin-based calls, texts, and online chats to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline are answered by counselors connected to Wisconsin Lifeline. The counselors are trained to listen and support callers through their distress with a focus on de-escalation and coping skills. 

Preparing for 988

For individuals

• Before July 16, 2022, continue to call 800-273-8255 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
• Wisconsin Lifeline counselors are trained to reduce the stress of your challenge, provide emotional support, and connect you with local resources.
• Wisconsin Lifeline is not able to send an in-person response directly. A direct in-person response requires a transfer to another service and could involve law enforcement.
• If you or someone you know is in imminent danger, call 911.

For behavioral health providers

• Begin conversations with staff in your agency on the existing referral sources and how you will use 988 in the future.
• Continue to provide the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s phone number (800-273-8255) to clients and other individuals.
• Do not identify 988 as an agency-specific crisis service. It can be incorporated as part of a safety plan, but it should not be the only point of contact for clients experiencing a crisis.

There are many questions about the transition to 988 and how 988 will work. Review the federal government’s answers to frequently asked questions.

Wisconsin’s 988 Planning Coalition

We have formed a 988 Planning Coalition to advise us on issues related to coordination across call centers, system capacity, funding, and marketing. This group has been meeting since April 2021. It includes advocates for people with mental health and substance use concerns, behavioral health professionals, county staff, law enforcement, representatives from 211 and 911, people with lived experience of suicidal thoughts, and suicide loss survivors.