What is the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline?
988 is a free, confidential crisis lifeline available 24/7 to provide support for people experiencing mental health, substance use, or suicidal crises. When you call, text, or chat 988, you will be connected with trained crisis counselors who can offer immediate support and resources.
When Should You Call 988?
Call, text, or chat 988 if you or someone you know is:
- Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or in distress
- Experiencing suicidal thoughts or self-harm
- Struggling with substance use or addiction
- Concerned about a loved one's mental health
- In need of immediate emotional support
988 is not a substitute for 911. If you or someone else is in immediate danger or needs emergency medical care, call 911.
What Happens When You Call, Text, or Chat 988?
When you call 988 in Kane County, you will be connected to a trained crisis counselor from Suicide Prevention Services of America in Batavia who will:
- Listen and provide support
- Assess the situation and your needs
- Offer coping strategies and crisis intervention
- Connect you to local mental health services and resources if needed
In certain situations, when additional in-person support is needed, a mobile crisis response team may be dispatched to provide assistance. In Kane County, these services are offered by the Association for Individual Development, the Ecker Center for Behavioral Health, and Family Services Associates of Greater Elgin.
Is 988 Confidential?
Yes. Conversations with 988 are private and confidential. The goal is to provide support and assistance without involving law enforcement unless there is an immediate safety concern.
Who Can Use 988?
988 is available to anyone in the U.S., including:
- Youth and teens
- Adults in crisis
- Veterans and their families (Press 1 for veteran support)
- Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing (TTY users dial 711, then 988)
- Spanish speakers (Press 2 for Spanish-speaking counselors)
988 vs. 911: Which One Should I Call?
988
- Mental health or emotional crisis
- Feeling suicidal or overwhelmed
- Need emotional support
911
- Medical emergency, injury, or crime
- Immediate danger to self or others
- Need police, fire, or EMS
Local Mental Health Resources in Kane County
988 can connect you to national and local crisis services. Here are some additional resources in Kane County:
Need Help? Call 988 Now
If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Call, text, or chat 988 for free, confidential support anytime, day or night.
