09/07/2026
Tomorrow is National 988 Day — Do you know when to call 988 instead of 911?
Both 988 and 911 are important resources, but they serve different purposes.
🧠 CALL OR TEXT 988 — Su***de & Crisis Lifeline
988 connects you with trained crisis counselors who can provide support during a mental health, su***de, or substance use crisis.
Examples of when to contact 988:
• You’re feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, extremely anxious, or emotionally distressed.
• You’re having thoughts of su***de or self-harm but are not in immediate physical danger.
• You’re struggling with a mental health or substance use crisis and need someone to talk to.
• A friend or family member is experiencing a mental health crisis and you’re unsure how to help.
• You’re concerned about someone and need guidance or resources.
• You simply feel like you’re reaching a breaking point and need support.
You do not have to be suicidal to contact 988. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
🚓🚒🚑 CALL 911 — IMMEDIATE EMERGENCIES
911 is for situations requiring an immediate response from police, fire, or emergency medical services.
Examples of when to call 911:
• Someone has attempted su***de, seriously injured themselves, or taken an overdose.
• Someone has a weapon and there is an immediate threat to themselves or others.
• Someone is unconscious, not breathing, or experiencing another medical emergency.
• A violent crime or assault is occurring.
• There is a fire, serious crash, or other immediate danger to life or property.
• You need police, fire, or EMS to respond right now.
An easy way to remember:
🧠 Need crisis support or someone to talk to? → 988
🚨 Need police, fire, or an ambulance immediately? → 911
If you’re unsure and believe someone may be in immediate danger, call 911.
Knowing the difference helps connect people with the right resource at the right time.
Please help us spread the word this National 988 Day by sharing this post.
988 — Help. Hope. Support. 💙
— Sagadahoc County Communications Center
