Nicole Sproba Corporate Wellness Consultant View Bio

According to a new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, suicide rates among teens and young adults declined in the two years following the launch of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in July 2022.

Researchers examined suicide deaths among people ages 15 to 34 from mid-2022 through the end of 2024. They found suicide deaths were about 11% lower than expected based on trends from prior years, equivalent to more than 4,300 fewer deaths nationwide during that period. While the study does not prove that 988 alone caused the decline, the data shows a strong connection between increased use of the crisis line and reduced suicide rates.

The study also found that states with the largest increases in calls, texts and chats to 988 saw even greater declines in suicide deaths. In those states, suicide rates among young people dropped by about 18%, compared with an 11% reduction in states where use of the hotline increased less. This pattern suggests that awareness and accessibility may play an important role in helping people get support when they need it most.

Experts say the impact of 988 goes beyond the hotline itself. Its launch was paired with significant federal investment, more than $1.5 billion, to strengthen crisis response systems nationwide. That funding helped expand staffing, reduce wait times, and improve connections to local mental health services such as mobile crisis teams and walk-in centers. Together, these changes may make it easier for individuals in distress to access timely help.

Mental health advocates describe the findings as a hopeful sign, especially after years of rising suicide rates among young people. They also emphasize that broader awareness of 988 remains essential, as many people are still unaware that the service exists or that it is available 24/7 by phone, text or chat.

If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers free, confidential support at any time by calling or texting 988 or by chatting online at 988lifeline.org.