Home / Health / 988 Lifeline Use Surges: More North Carolinians Seek Mental Health Help
988 Lifeline Use Surges: More North Carolinians Seek Mental Health Help
19 Jul
Summary
- 988 Lifeline usage has more than doubled since its 2022 launch.
- Mobile crisis teams can now be dispatched directly by 988 counselors.
- Enhanced systems help 988 counselors find available mental health beds faster.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is celebrating its fourth anniversary with significant service expansions in North Carolina. Usage of the lifeline has more than doubled since its 2022 introduction, as more residents seek help via phone, text, and online chats.
In March, a pilot program was initiated to allow 988 counselors to dispatch mobile crisis teams or connect callers to local providers. This initiative began in nine eastern North Carolina counties and has since expanded to 27.
Furthermore, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services upgraded the Behavioral Health Statewide Central Availability Navigator (BH SCAN). This enhancement enables 988 counselors to locate available mental health beds more efficiently, thereby reducing wait times and ensuring faster access to appropriate care for individuals experiencing crises.
Support is available 24/7 in English and Spanish, offering assistance for depression, distress, mental health crises, and self-harm thoughts. Specialized services for veterans and ASL support for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals are also provided.
