The 988 Florida Lifeline, administered locally by United Way of Northeast Florida, is a 24/7/365 service operated locally that provides judgement-free support for individuals experiencing emotional distress, suicidal thoughts or substance use crises. Whether you call for yourself or someone you’re concerned about, our trained caring counselors are here to listen, offer coping strategies and provide immediate support.
It’s OK not to be OK. 988 offers a safe space for hope and acceptance when emotions feel overwhelming. You are not alone – support is available and a path forward is possible.
You deserve to feel heard and supported. Here’s what you can expect when making a call to the 988 Florida Lifeline:
Step 1 – Listen
Your caring counselor will introduce themselves and ask a few questions to understand your current situation and immediate needs.
Step 2 – Understand
They’ll listen and create a safe space for you to share what you’re going through and how you’re feeling.
Step 3 – Navigate next steps
Your caring counselor will then guide you through coping strategies and safety planning and connect you with local resources, if needed.
Am I going to speak to a licensed mental health provider?
No. When you contact 988, you’ll be connected with a trained caring counselor. While not licensed mental health providers, they are specifically trained to support people experiencing mental health or substance use distress or thoughts of suicide. They listen and offer support and can connect you to additional resources if needed.
If I reach out through chat and text, will I connect with a real person?
Yes. Whether you call, text or chat, you’re speaking with a real person, ready to listen and help you through challenges you’re facing.
How can you get in touch with 988?
You can reach 988 three ways:
Dial 9-8-8
Text 9-8-8
Chat at 988lifeline.org/chat
Judgement-free support is available 24/7/365.
988 caller who was contemplating suicide
Want to learn more or donate to this important work? Contact our 988 Florida Lifeline director, Hannah Hackworth.
