The Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services and Virginia Department of Health announced Tuesday the transition of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline to the three digit 988 number.

In 2020, Congress designated the new 988 dialing code to operate through the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s (1-800-273-8255) network of over 200 locally operated and funded crisis centers across the country.

“988 will give Virginians in crisis an easy way to quickly connect to trained support, no matter where you are,” said Gov. Glenn Youngkin. “This is a crucial step in transforming our crisis system so that all Virginians have someone to talk to, someone to respond, and don’t have to wonder about how to access help.”

988 is a direct connection to compassionate, accessible care and support for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress. Similar to dialing 911 in emergencies, anyone who needs mental health support can dial 988, whether they ...