[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 120 (Wednesday, July 20, 2022)]
[House]
[Page H6903]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            988 CRISIS LINE

  (Mr. CARTER of Louisiana asked and was given permission to address 
the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, 988. These three digits 
represent an important first step toward a transformed crisis care 
system in America.
  Congress passed the legislation to formally authorize 988 as the new 
number for suicide and mental health crises. This 24/7 hotline and text 
line is available to people with mental health-related distress, 
including thoughts of suicide, mental health crisis, or substance use 
crisis.
  Additionally, family and friends can use this service to support 
loved ones who are struggling.
  By calling or texting 988, people will immediately be connected with 
trained crisis counselors who will do everything they can to help.
  Mental health care is healthcare, and the enactment of 988 is a long 
overdue example of government finally prioritizing mental health and 
putting crisis care in reach for more Americans. But there is much more 
to do.
  I will continue to work in Congress and in the community to help 
fight the stigma and increase mental health support for all.

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