Montgomery, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH) proudly celebrates the third anniversary of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a vital resource that has transformed how individuals across the state access mental health care in moments of crisis. Since its launch on July 16, 2022, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has become a critical entry point for Alabamians seeking immediate help, connecting them to local crisis services through calls, texts, and chats.

Alabama has made remarkable strides in building a statewide system of care that helps individuals in need and 988 is a vital component.

  • Since 2022, a total of 132,713 contacts have been received by crisis counselors.
  • In June 2025, the in-state answer rate reached 87.9%; up from 64% in July 2022.
  • The average speed to answer is currently just 23 seconds. Every second sooner that a crisis is addressed, can mean a life saved.

“988 is more than a phone number. It is a lifeline for Alabamians,” said ADMH Commissioner Kimberly Boswell. “We know 988 saves lives. Giving people a direct way to access care is one of the most important things we can do for the citizens of Alabama.”

Across the state, 988 works with local providers to ensure individuals are not just assisted in a crisis but are connected to local resources.

What began as a simple three-digit number has transformed into a comprehensive infrastructure that includes crisis centers, mobile response teams, and partnerships and understanding between individuals, families, organizations and law enforcement.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is integrated into the crisis centers in Alabama. Alabama has opened six regional crisis centers, each designed to serve as a safe, stabilizing alternative to emergency rooms for those experiencing mental health, suicidal or substance use crises. Additionally, mobile crisis teams have expanded, sending trained professionals directly to individuals experiencing mental health emergencies in community settings.

“988 offers another day of life and a chance for recovery. We are thankful for the Lifeline and its success in helping to save the lives of Alabamians every day,” said Commissioner Boswell.

For more information on 988 and crisis services in Alabama, please visit https://mh.alabama.gov/988-2/.

 

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ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH CELEBRATES THREE YEARS OF 988