The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in the US has introduced American Sign Language (ASL) services for deaf, deaf-blind, and hard of hearing individuals, enhancing accessibility.

ASL services recently launched, allowing users to connect with trained ASL counselors through 988lifeline.org's "ASL Now" button, with direct videophone dialing becoming available soon.

Established last year, the 988 Lifeline replaced the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, providing shorter and more memorable three-digit access, similar to 911.

Part of SAMHSA's ongoing efforts, the 988 Lifeline aims to make behavioral health care more accessible, offering support for suicidal crises, mental health concerns, and emotional distress.

In its first year, nearly 5 million calls, texts, and chat messages have been answered through 988, showcasing its significance as a crisis resource.

The Biden administration has invested nearly $1 billion in the initiative, primarily supporting states, territories, and tribes in hiring crisis counselors and improving local response.

Despite its importance, a July poll by the National Alliance on Mental Illness revealed that a substantial portion of the population remains unfamiliar with the 988 Lifeline, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and education.