988 has been designated as the new three-digit number to dial for suicide prevention. The number is active in Louisiana and Karen Stubbs, Assistant Secretary with the Office of Behavioral Health at LDH said it’s vital to help those in crisis.
“By establishing 988 as the simple and easy to remember three-digit code for suicide and crisis lifeline, it really brings it to the level of 911,” said Stubbs.
Stubbs said if you dial 988 in Louisiana it’s routed to a local crisis center. She said their office wanted to be sure it’s answered quickly and by trained individuals.
“We thought it was really important to really make sure that someone in crisis is being met, kind of where they are emotionally and by someone who understands our culture,” said Stubbs.
There are two 988 call centers in Louisiana, one in northern part of the state and the other covering southern Louisiana. Stubbs said and if one is receiving an influx of calls, the other center acts as a backup.
According to the CDC suicide is the 12th leading cause of death and in 2020 more than 600 Louisianans took their own life. Stubbs said 988 hopes to change that and even if someone isn’t actively suicidal, they are there to help.
“If all you need to do is talk someone, I’d say use it, you really have nothing to lose by calling 988 and seeking assistance,” said Stubbs.
All calls to 988 are free and confidential.
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