One of our absolute favorite things is getting feedback from our audience. In today’s episode, we discuss an online post that an audience member shared with us about 988, the new Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which we discussed in our last episode (Ep. 059 : We Call 988). In this post, there are a lot statements about what 988 is and what will happen if you call it. Like any good social media content, there are some views we agree with and others that we find problematic. What’s the internet for if not to stir the pot?! In this episode, we go on the record about the ideas in the post that we agree and disagree with. 

We discuss what the purpose of 988 is and who can benefit from its existence. We also discuss potential outcomes from calling 988. From safety planning, to further mental health resources, to even hospitalization, there are a variety of tools that a caller may be referred to. In the most extreme examples, if a caller is believed to be imminently suicidal or a danger to other people, police may be called. While that outcome does exist it is rarely used except when there is no other choice. We also discuss what happens if and when someone is hospitalized for suicidal thinking. There is a lot to unpack!  If you have questions about what 988 is, check out episode 59 : We Call 988, or, for a quick description, read our latest blog. “What Exactly Is 988?”