Native and Strong Lifeline now open!
Call 988 and press 4
New crisis line is a first of its kind—created by and for Native people
Earlier this month, the Department of Health (DOH) announced the nation’s first Nations first Native and Strong Lifeline Launches as Part of 988 | Washington State Department of Health,
which launches as part of the state's 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The Native and Strong Lifeline is dedicated to serving American Indian and Alaska Native people.
Why create the Native and Strong Lifeline?
In 2020, non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Native people in Washington had a 34 percent higher suicide rate than the rest of the population. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the barriers to care that Native communities face. As a result,
during the pandemic, American Indians experienced higher suicide and overdose attempt rates—at least two times higher than that of non-Natives.
How to contact
To reach the Native and Strong Lifeline, call “988” and press 4.
Calls are answered by Native crisis counselors who are Tribal citizens and descendants closely tied to their communities. They are fully trained in crisis intervention and support, with special emphasis on cultural and traditional practices related to
healing. The Native and Strong Lifeline offers a new way of healing that centers the lived experiences, traditions, and wisdom of Native people.
The Native and Strong Lifeline is confidential, free, and available 24/7.
When to contact
Contact the Native and Strong Lifeline if you or a loved one is experiencing:
- Thoughts of suicide
- Mental health crisis
- Substance use concerns
- Any other kind of emotional distress
Talk To Someone Now : Lifeline (988lifeline.org)
What Happens When I Call The Lifeline?
First, you’ll hear a message telling you that you’ve reached the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
We’ll play you a little hold music while we connect you.
A skilled, trained crisis worker who works at the Lifeline network crisis center closest to you will answer the phone.
This person will listen to you, understand how your problem is affecting you, provide support, and share any resources that may be helpful.
To read a more detailed explanation of what happens when you call the Lifeline, and more, click HowOurCallsAreRouted-InfographicsRefresh (988lifeline.org)
Remember, your call is confidential and free.
Should I Call The Lifeline?
No matter what problems you’re dealing with, whether or not you’re thinking about suicide, if you need someone to lean on for emotional support, call the Lifeline.
People call to talk about lots of things: substance abuse, economic worries, relationships, sexual identity, getting over abuse, depression, mental and physical illness, and loneliness, to name a few.
Talking with someone about your thoughts and feelings can save your life.