Dialing 988 in Alaska connects callers to mental health resources

The new 988 suicide and crisis hotline went live in Alaska and across the U.S. on July 16. Those in crisis can call or text the number and will be directly connected to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Anyone who is calling the number from the 907 area code will be connected to Careline Alaska, based in Fairbanks. Callers will learn about local resources for receiving help.

In 2020, suicide was the second leading cause of death for Alaskans ages 15-34. The three-digit number aims to improve Alaska’s health care system that responds to those experiencing a mental health crisis.

– Jessica Small, The Alaska 100