WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced a $231 million funding opportunity to support administration of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a nationwide mental health and suicide prevention service.
SAMHSA, which operates under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, said the funding will support the national network administrator that oversees more than 200 local crisis contact centers across the United States. In 2025, the 988 Lifeline received more than 8 million contacts through calls, texts, chats, and American Sign Language videophone services.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline was established as a universal three-digit number under federal law signed in 2020 and officially launched nationwide in July 2022. The service provides 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors for individuals experiencing mental health, substance use, or suicidal crises, as well as for those concerned about someone else.
U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the administration intends to continue supporting access to the service, while SAMHSA Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Christopher D. Carroll emphasized the role of the national administrator in maintaining reliability and effectiveness of the system.
According to SAMHSA data cited in the release, millions of Americans continue to experience major depressive episodes, substance use disorders, and suicidal thoughts each year. The agency said studies indicate many individuals who contact 988 report reduced distress after speaking with a crisis counselor.
The funding opportunity is intended to ensure continued nationwide operation and coordination of the 988 Lifeline. Additional details about eligibility and application requirements are available through SAMHSA’s grant announcement portal.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. To locate a treatment facility or provider, visit FindTreatment.gov.
