Important: This page provides general information, not medical or legal advice, a diagnosis, or a guarantee of services, coverage, cost, availability, or a particular privacy outcome. Policies and benefits can change. Consult a qualified professional for personal guidance and verify coverage and costs with the provider and health plan. Do not delay emergency help to check coverage.
Crisis Support
988 vs. Local Crisis Lines: Which Number Should You Call?
A simple guide to help you choose between 911, 988, and local crisis lines when you or someone you love needs help.
When someone is struggling, it can be hard to know what number to call. This guide gives general routing information, not a complete safety assessment. If you are unsure and immediate physical danger or a medical emergency may be present, call 911.
Call 911 if there is immediate danger
Call 911 right away if:
- Someone has a weapon
- Someone has taken an overdose or is unresponsive
- There is immediate risk of harm to self or others
- There are severe medical symptoms (trouble breathing, chest pain, seizures)
Dial 988 for immediate emotional support
Dial 988 when:
- You need immediate emotional support
- You’re having thoughts of suicide or self-harm
- You’re overwhelmed and need to talk to someone right now
988 connects callers, texters, and chat users to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Contacting 988 is free. The Lifeline describes contacts as confidential, but not anonymous: the service may receive the phone number or IP address used, document the contact, and use or disclose information in the circumstances described in its confidentiality statement. Emergency services may be contacted when the counselor determines there is imminent risk or when law otherwise requires it.
Call a local crisis line for local guidance and services
Depending on current staffing, location, capacity, and the assessment, local crisis services may help with:
- Guidance on where to go locally
- Connecting to crisis stabilization or walk-in options
- Coordinating follow-up care
- Helping family members understand next steps
If you are in Southern West Virginia, you can also use our local crisis resources page:
If you’re supporting a loved one
It’s common to feel unsure about “overreacting.” If safety is uncertain, it’s okay to err on the side of getting help. You can also review caregiver guidance: