Idaho residents now can call or text 988 at any time to talk to a trained professional who can help them through a behavioral health crisis.
988 is the new three-digit number for call (multiple languages), text, or chat (English only) that connects people to The Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline [idahocrisis.org].
People can use 988 if they are having thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crises, or any other kind of emotional distress. People can also dial 988 if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.
988 is part of Idaho’s crisis continuum of care which includes crisis de-escalation over the phone, appropriate crisis mobile response, behavioral health service linkage, and crisis follow-up.
Previous phone numbers used for crisis in Idaho will continue to operate. People can still call 800-273-8255 or text 208-398-4357, but the same thing is accomplished by simply dialing or texting 988.
The Ada County Sheriff’s Office and our Emergency 911 dispatchers will continue to work with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare and The Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline to ensure callers are getting the services they need.
People should still call 911 for emergency medical service, fire, or public safety emergencies.
For more information visit Idaho’s 988 website Call988idaho.com