Ongoing updates on 988 implementation will be available across all VA platforms. VA has been preparing Veterans for this change through ongoing updates on the VCL website: What is 988? ().Ī full external campaign marketing 988 for VCL will launch July 16, 2022, with social media, press releases and paid media. VCL text (838255) and chat services remain unchangedĬrisis support, available 24/7/365, is one critical component of implementation of the National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide (2018). Upon 988 activation, Veterans may still dial 1-80 and Press 1, which will continue to be operational. for purposes of the national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system, operating through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and VCL.

This change is the result of the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020, which designated 988 as the universal telephone number within the U.S. The new, shorter number directly addresses the need for ease of access and clarity in times of crisis, both for Veterans and non-Veterans alike. On July 16, 2022, the Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) will have a new number: Dial 988 then Press 1. Quick, easy access to services in times of crisis, which provide hope and connection to resources, can and does save Veterans’ lives. Suicide is preventable, and each of us has a role to play in suicide prevention.

Below are important points of information to know as this functionality is stood up. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) administers the Veterans Crisis Line through the Lifeline’s national network, the Veterans Crisis Line was affected by this transition. Signed into law in 2020, the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act authorized 988 as the new three-digit number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Lifeline).

Korean war veterans navy rochester ny