A lot of work ahead, 988

Since 2005, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-8255, has been used to help those in crisis. In July, that number received an update. 

Although the 1-800 number is still used, the shortened number “988” has been developed to help those in an emergency. 

While appearing on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse program, Kevin Parker, a counselor with the VA Suicide Prevention Program, spoke on the “988” number, an updated number used to help anyone in crisis. 

According to Parker, 44,298 US adults died from suicide in 2020, including 6,146 Veterans.

Parker told listeners that since 2001, the suicide rate among Veteran and non-Veterans has increased each year, but the number and rate of suicide deaths had decreased in 2019 and 2020 for Veterans and non-Veteran US adults. Parker hopes this is a sign that the work of communities of organizations and efforts are having an impact, but said there is still a lot of work ahead for all of us. 

If you are concerned about a veteran, reach out to them or contact the Crisis Line. The phone number is the same for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 988 or 1-800-273-8255, however by pressing “1” at the prompt the caller is connected to the Veterans Crisis Line. 

Additional ways to connect to the Veterans Crisis Line are by texting 838255, or via chat at www.veteranscrisisline.net.