CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The state of North Carolina said the first year of the nationwide, mental health crisis help line, 988, is working to address the state’s mental health care needs.

What You Need To Know

  • NCDHHS says 5,000 people call the 988 help line each month

  • Ninety percent of callers who are experiencing suicidal thoughts report their feelings improve by the end of the call, according to state data

  • The state recently added Spanish-language services to the 988 line

 

The help line assists people suffering a mental health crisis, thoughts of suicide and substance abuse. It connects the caller with a trained counselor and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services said the help line is getting 5,000 calls a month in North Carolina.

“988 has made it easier and faster for those in a mental health or substance use crisis to get the help they need," NCDHHS Secretary Kody H. Kinsley said as part of a release on the department’s website.

In his office at UNC Charlotte, Dr. John Nance, a clinical assistant professor and private practice counselor, said requests for mental health services have taken off since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Absolutely, there are many more individuals who are in duress, and we’ve got waiting lists. Every practitioner I know has a waiting list,” Nance said Monday. “And it seems to increase, it does not seem to be letting up as the pandemic eases. We’re not seeing any diminishing of the needs.”

Since the launch of the nationwide phone number in July of 2022, the state says there has been a 31% increase in North Carolinians seeking support. 

“These are people calling this number that want help. They’re seeking to understand, or they’re seeking just some guidance. Or, the ability to get through the night and not make the decision they’re fearing,” Nance added. “Mental health need is throughout society, no matter your station in life.”

The phone line appears to be working, with 90% of North Carolinian callers with thoughts of suicide, saying their feelings improved by the end of the call, according to NCDHHS data released as part of the anniversary of the first year of service. 

“The help line is amazing, because first of all, it’s connection. When people may feel isolated and have no structure or support, there’s immediate support there for them,” Nance continued.

Further help is on the way.

NCDHHS said it recently added text and chat services at the 988 line in Spanish in an effort to better reach Spanish-speaking communities in the state. Additionally, the department is adding supplemental service to the help line. It will connect people in need with peer-led support, allowing them to talk with someone who has a lived experience similar to theirs and is in recovery.

If you or a loved one need support with mental health, thoughts of suicide or substance abuse, you can call or text 988 for help.