FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question not answered here? Call, text or chat with 988 and ask us.
What is 988?
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a national program providing one-on-one support for mental health, suicide, and substance use-related issues, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
988 Kansas Lifeline is the state provider of 988 services. When you call, text or chat 988–wherever you are in the country–you’re connected to compassionate, trained crisis counselors in your area who can direct you to local resources and support.
How do I know if I need to call 988?
The Kansas 988 Lifeline is a free community resource for anyone experiencing mental health struggles. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following, calling 988 is one of the best ways to access local mental and behavioral health resources:
- Talking about or making plans for suicide
- Acting anxious or agitated
- Talking about being a burden to others, or feeling trapped
- Increased use of alcohol, medication or other substances
- Feeling hopeless
- Change in sleep habits: either too much or too little
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated from community
- Experiencing extreme mood swings
What’s the difference between the Kansas 988 Lifeline and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline?
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline was rebranded in 2022 as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The Kansas 988 Lifeline is a local service of the national 988 Lifeline, and the two services often work together, with the national call center providing call support when call volume exceeds a local center’s capacity.
Both state and national 988 provide connections to local mental and behavioral health resources, and both are free to use and available 24/7/365.
Who can call 988?
The 988 Kansas Lifeline is for all Kansans experiencing mental health crisis, overwhelming feelings due to depression or anxiety, or needing a compassionate ear to work through a problem. The Lifeline is also for people worried about a loved one, or looking for mental health resources for their families or communities.
The 988 Lifeline responds 24/7 to calls, chats or texts from anyone who needs support for suicidal thoughts, mental health, and/or substance use crisis, and connects those in need with a counselor who listens and talks through your unique situation to give personal, judgment-free support.
There are many reasons that people connect with the 988 Lifeline beyond suicide. Some examples include problems with drug or alcohol use, emotional distress, anxiety, depression, mental illness, loneliness, trauma, bullying, stress, relationship troubles, and just needing someone to talk with.
Chances are, if you’re thinking about calling 988 Kansas Lifeline, you’re exactly the person we want to hear from. This Lifeline is here to support you through a difficult time. We believe you and are here 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Don’t wait until you’re in a crisis situation to reach out.
Is the 988 Kansas Lifeline available in languages other than English?
Yes! Our translation services can accommodate over 240 different languages. If you need an interpreter, simply tell the counselor what language you prefer, and you’ll be connected with an interpreter.
Who answers my call at 988 Kansas Lifeline?
The 988 Kansas Lifeline is staffed by trained, compassionate counselors from communities across the state of Kansas who understand what you’re going through.
All 988 crisis counselors complete extensive training in suicide prevention, mental health support, and crisis intervention. They receive ongoing education and supervision to ensure they provide the highest quality of care. Our counselors understand that reaching out for help takes courage, and they approach every conversation without judgment.
Crisis counselors are skilled at listening, understanding different perspectives, and helping people work through difficult situations. They won’t try to fix your problems or tell you what to do—instead, they’ll listen to your concerns and work with you to explore options and develop a plan that feels right for you.
Does my local mental health crisis line still work?
If you’re used to reaching out to your local mental health center, the good news is they’re still there! 988 Kansas Lifeline doesn’t replace the incredible people working with communities across Kansas–often, those same people are answering 988 calls, as well.
If you’re used to reaching out to the local ten-digit number for mental health services, please continue to do so. 988 Kansas Lifeline is available whenever you want a shorter number to dial, or prefer to text or chat online. Whatever you prefer, please keep reaching out when you need someone to talk with.
Does 988 Kansas Lifeline trace my call, text or chat?
Neither the 988 Kansas Lifeline, or national 988 have the capabilities to trace phone calls or text messages. Your call is routed to the nearest call center, so that our Lifeline crisis counselors can connect you with local mental health services should you request them. Any follow-up or outreach is entirely up to you, and we respect your decision.
