The New 988 Lifeline is Here for You
A MESSAGE FROM CONGRESSMAN HOYER
Earlier this month, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline was activated across the country. The three-digit number will make it easier for Marylanders to access 24/7 crisis prevention care and connect veterans to the Veterans Crisis Line. This is a very important tool to ensure families have the emergency care they deserve.
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of Americans struggling with mental health and behavioral health issues, even right here in Maryland. Addressing this issue has been a priority for myself and the Maryland Congressional Delegation, including Rep. Jamie Raskin who has been a champion on ensuring Marylanders have the mental health resources they need.
If you are in need of emotional support, please reach the 988 lifeline, or go online to 988lifeline.org to use the chat feature and get connected with a trained crisis counselor who will listen to you and provided resources to help you overcome the challenges you may face.
Bipartisan legislation made the 988 lifeline possible, and I am proud that in 2020 the House and Senate were able to come together to send the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act to the President. This legislation authorized 988 as the new universal telephone number for a national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline.
Lastly, as a part of the Biden Administration's strategy to combatting our nation's mental health crisis, I commend the President's ongoing efforts to address this critical issue, including investing a substantial $432 million to shore up crisis centers and strengthen resources for communities around the country. I will continue to advocate for additional resources to ensure continued assistance for individuals, families and communities struggling with the consequences of the mental health epidemic.
As always, I encourage all Fifth-District residents to continue sharing their concerns and feedback with me by contacting my office or connecting with me on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. If you are need of assistance, such as with help accessing veterans’ benefits or have another issue regarding a federal agency, and you wish for my office to place an inquiry on your behalf, please complete the casework request form by clicking here.
Sincerely Yours,
Steny H. Hoyer |