New National 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline now Supplements NH’s Current Crisis Response System

As part of efforts to improve access to mental health services in NH, the NH DHHS launched 988, the new 3-digit dialing code that routes callers to trained counselors at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL), on July 16, 2022.

The 988 number is a supplement to, not a replacement for, the NH Rapid Response system currently in place.  For a local response every time, those in need of mental health services can continue to contact NH Rapid Response at 1-833-710-6477.

988 is a national system where the 988 call center routes calls by area code.  This means someone calling from an area code outside of NH will reach a call center in that area code’s corresponding state.

For a response from a NH provider, regardless of your area code, call or text NH Rapid Response at 833-710-6477.

Why Add The 988 Number?

The 988 number was added to supplement NH’s robust crisis response system.  Consider it one more option for people experiencing a mental health crisis.  For example, if the first local center is unable to answer an incoming call, it will be routed to a back-up NH center.  If both NH centers are unable to answer, the call will be routed to the national back-up network.

NH Rapid Response, which is available 24/7 365 days a year, will continue to provide mental health crisis services via phone, text and chat for children, youth and adults who may be experiencing a mental health or co-occurring substance misuse crisis.

Community Mental Health Centers Provide On-the-Spot Help Via Mobile Crisis Teams

In addition to the Rapid Response crisis line, mobile crisis teams staffed by NH’s ten Community Mental Health Centers across the state are ready to meet people where they are if they have more intensive needs.  As of May 2022, mobile crisis teams have been deployed 2,840 times.

How Does 988 Fit With 911 and 211?

Law enforcement is typically the first responder activated by a 911 call – but that may not always be appropriate for mental health situations.  911 remains in place for the deployment of police, fire and EMS services. 

211 will remain as a non-emergency number to connect with community resources and The Doorway, NH’s substance misuse access point.