This July marks the third anniversary of 988 in Georgia, and the numbers show it’s making a difference.
Since its launch in 2022, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has transformed how Georgians access mental health and crisis support. What started as a new three-digit number is now a vital part of Georgia’s mental health infrastructure, helping thousands each month get the support they need, when they need it most.
Today, the state’s 988 system is on track to handle over 20,000 calls, texts, and chats every month. Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 to help people experiencing mental health or substance use emergencies.
For those who need more than a conversation, Georgia deploys more than 2,000 mobile crisis response teams each month, bringing in-person care directly to those in crisis.
When 988 celebrated its first year in 2023, only about 16% of Georgians knew about the service. Now, thanks to major outreach and education efforts, that number has soared to around 85%, reflecting growing public awareness of this free, confidential resource.
State officials credit this progress to a wide coalition of partners from mental health advocates and healthcare providers to government leaders and grassroots supporters. all working together to build a more responsive, accessible crisis system in Georgia.
To learn more or get help, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org.