Feedback shows limited satisfaction with the 988 mental health crisis line among its users
Despite receiving millions of calls, texts, and online messages since its launch in 2022, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline falls short of its potential, according to a recent study Enhancements are needed to maximize its effectiveness
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, since its establishment in the summer of 2022, has garnered an overwhelming number of calls, texts, and online messages. However, a recent study indicates that the mental health resource still has untapped potential.
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One year after its launch, the 988 mental health crisis line is still focusing on increasing awareness and staffing.
Research published in JAMA Network Open on Tuesday revealed that individuals with severe psychological distress were more familiar with and inclined to use the lifeline compared to others. However, the study found that only 25% of the participants expressed their likelihood of relying on 988 in the future if they or their loved ones faced a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts. Additionally, less than a third of individuals with severe psychological distress, who had already utilized the lifeline, expressed their inclination to use it again.
"According to Michael A. Lindsey, dean of the New York University Silver School of Social Work and co-author of the new study, the launch of the 988 hotline was a critical step in addressing America's increasing mental health service needs. However, it is crucial to understand why many users who were in serious distress did not use it again. This understanding will help determine if better training, more resources, or other solutions are necessary."
"The findings of the study are based on a nationally-representative survey conducted in June, which involved approximately 5,000 participants. Psychological distress levels were evaluated through self-reported responses to a standardized set of questions about emotions and personal experiences."
The 988 lifeline was launched in July 2022 as a transition from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, aiming for a broader focus and a more simplified dial code. Since its launch, 988 has received approximately 6.5 million calls, texts, and chats, with over 500,000 of those occurring in September alone, states data published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration of the US Department of Health and Human Services. To gain further insight into the success of this lifeline beyond call volume metrics, CNN has contacted the agency for their perspective.
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Healthcare professionals are grappling with a mental health emergency, as stated by the CDC. In light of this troubling situation, experts are underscoring the importance of a crucial resource like the 988 lifeline. Monica Johnson, the director of the 988 & Behavioral Health Crisis Coordinating office, describes it as the most revolutionary initiative in behavioral healthcare that she has witnessed during her extensive career.
Jonathan Purtle, the lead researcher and associate professor at New York University School of Global Public Health, emphasized the significance of getting it right due to the critical need. He expressed that he doesn't view the data as a sign of failure and highlighted the importance of this new development in the country. Purtle acknowledged that it is a complex process that will take time to perfect.
The success of the 988 lifeline hinges on effectively handling acute crises and facilitating access to extensive mental health resources. The individual mentioned that it entails actively providing support through attentive listening and evaluation, serving as a gateway to comprehensive care. Ideally, success would involve not only addressing immediate concerns during the call or text but also ensuring continued support in a well-functioning system.
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Lindsay emphasized that the goal of the 988 interactions is to provide individuals with a feeling of hope and connect them to valuable resources. These interactions should be culturally sensitive and handled within their local communities.
Improving the effectiveness of the lifeline, both during and after the call, will necessitate enhanced training for mental health professionals, according to the researchers.
"The lifeline was previously known as the Suicide Prevention Lifeline, targeting a specific group of callers," Purtle explained. "With the implementation of 988, the dynamics have changed significantly. There are now more diverse callers with a wider range of challenges, which suggests the need for different training methods to effectively assist individuals when they reach out for help."
