September 8 is 988 Day, a national day dedicated to raising awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and helping people understand that support is available when they need it.

This year's message is simple: “988 Reasons: Your reason is reason enough.”

And that's an important message to remember.

You Don't Have to Be in Crisis to Reach Out

Many people think of 988 only as a resource for someone experiencing suicidal thoughts. While 988 absolutely provides support during suicidal crises, it is also available for people experiencing emotional distress, mental health challenges, substance use concerns, loneliness, or other difficult moments.

You don't have to wait until things become unbearable to ask for help.

Maybe you're having a particularly difficult day. Maybe you're worried about someone you love. Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed and aren't sure what to do next.

Those are reasons to reach out.

What Happens When You Contact 988?

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides access to trained crisis counselors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can call or text 988, or use the online chat at 988lifeline.org.

The service is designed to provide judgment-free support and help people through moments of emotional or mental health distress. You can reach out for yourself or because you're concerned about someone else.

Know the Number Before You Need It

One of the most helpful things we can do is simply know that 988 exists.

Save the number in your phone. Talk about it with your family. Share information about it with a friend. And remember that reaching out for support isn't something you have to earn by reaching a certain level of crisis.

Sometimes, asking for help early can make it easier to get through a difficult moment.

Remember: 988

Call or text 988 for 24/7 support.

You can also chat online through 988lifeline.org.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

This 988 Day, let's help make sure more people know where to turn.

There are 988 reasons to reach out. Your reason is reason enough.