The Number You Need to Know - 988

Dialing 988 is the new, simple way to reach the Military/Veterans Crisis Line.  Activated on July 16, 2022 the new 988 number is easy to remember in times of need.

What is 988?

The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act signed into law in 2020, authorized 988 as the new three-digit number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

To reach the Military/Veterans Crisis Line dial 988, and then press 1. Many wireless providers have implemented the service for call, text, or chat. 

With the implementation of 988, Military/Veterans Crisis Line responders will continue to support service members, veterans, and their families. Responders are trained in crisis intervention and military culture.

The crisis line 800 number is partnered with SAMHSA’s Lifeline network and is available in a Continental United States (CONUS) toll-free number that will remain active. International calls may incur a charge, depending upon the location of the caller and network provider. Service members overseas may contact the crisis line via the chat modality at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/military-crisis-line/. If service members prefer to speak directly with someone, they can request a call within the chat. A crisis line responder will call them at the number they provide at no charge.

For active-duty personnel, the crisis line is also available OCONUS:

In Europe, call 00800-1273-8255 or DSN 118.

In Korea, call 080-855-5118 or DSN 118.

In the Philippines, call #MYVA or 02-8550-3888 and press 7

In Japan, call 098-970-8255 or 098-954-0123 from a Japanese cell phone

In Afghanistan, call 00-1-800-273 8255 or DSN 111.

Service members, veterans, and their families can still reach the crisis line with the current phone number - 800-273-8255 and press 1 - or by texting - 838255. To chat confidentially, visit https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/.