Information courtesy of WA State Employee Assistance Program.
988 is a new, easy-to-remember way to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL). It's confidential, free, and available 24/7/365. People calling or texting 988 will be connected to a trained crisis counselor.
Anyone can call or text 988 if they are experiencing:
• Thoughts of suicide.
• Mental health crisis.
• Substance use concerns.
• Emotional distress.
People can also call or text 988 if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.
Washington state has three designated NSPL crisis centers that answer 988 calls — Crisis Connections, Frontier Behavioral Health, and Volunteers of America of Western Washington.
988 does not replace any crisis call centers in Washington state. It is an addition to the state’s network of crisis center providers. The 10-digit NSPL number, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), will remain active along with 988.
Language and access options
Call services are available in Spanish, along with interpretation services in over 250 languages. Spanish speakers may reach the Spanish language line by pressing 2 after dialing 988. Text and chat services are available in English only.
Veterans and service members may reach the Veterans Crisis Line by pressing 1 after dialing 988.
People who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing should use their preferred relay service, or dial 711 then 988.
When to call EAP, 988, or 911
The EAP offers in-the-moment crisis counseling and referrals for all covered employees and their household adult family members. This support is available 24/7/365, including weekends and holidays.
For in-the-moment EAP support:
• Call the EAP at 877-313-4455.
• When you call and if you hear the phone system greeting and need to speak to someone right away for in-the-moment support, select option 2.
• Inform the staff member that you need in-the-moment support.
• You will be connected to a mental health clinician.
Anyone can call/text 988 if they — or a loved one — need crisis support. 988 connects the caller/texter to a trained crisis counselor.
You can dial 988 for substance use concerns. However, in case of an overdose emergency, call 911 and administer naloxone. Call 911 if you need emergency medical, fire, or police help.
If you feel help is needed, don't wait — make a call. If you're not sure which number is the right number, it's OK to make your best guess.
Share 988 with friends and family
Calling/texting 988 could help save a life. Please share this new, easy-to-remember number with your friends and family. As an employee covered by EAP benefits, you can also share the EAP 24/7 number (877-313-4455) with your household adult family members.
More information and resources
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988lifeline.org)
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (SAMHSA) and 988 Frequently Asked Questions (SAMHSA)
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and 988 Fast Facts (Washington State Department of Health)
Suicide Prevention and Intervention Resources and Services for Employees (Washington State EAP)