COLUMBUS, Ohio - According to a new report from the State, Ohio's 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has responded to nearly 340,000 contacts in its two years of operation.

Since its launch on July 16, 2022, Ohio's 19 call centers have responded to nearly 340,000 calls, texts, and chats: an average of more than 14,000 contacts each month.

"988 is saving lives," said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. "The lifeline is providing free, around-the-clock support to Ohioans in crisis by connecting them with someone to talk to for help at the moment it's needed most."

According to data from the State, Ohio 988's average speed-to-answer rate is 25 seconds, compared to 36 seconds nationally, an 11-second separation that the State says can make all the difference in a crisis.

Anyone experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis – or their family members – can call, text, or chat the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to reach a trained specialist who can offer assistance.

Reasons to call 988 include, but are not limited to: thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis, financial and relationship struggles, and any other kinds of serious emotional distress.

"988 is confidential and functions as a crucial gateway to crisis support within our communities," said LeeAnne Cornyn, Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) Director. "Our hope is that reaching out to 988 in a behavioral health crisis becomes as natural to Ohioans as dialing 911 in other types of emergencies."

As 988 enters its third year of service, state mental health leaders are encouraging even more local communities and organizations to get involved.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 or visit 988Lifeline.org for 24/7, confidential support. You can also learn more at mha.ohio.gov/988.