On July 16, 2022 a new nationwide National Suicide Prevention Line will go into effect. Similar to dialing 911, individuals will be able to dial 988 to instantly connect with the National Suicide Prevention Line.
Veterans who call 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Line will be transferred to VA’s Veterans Crisis Line to speak with counselors who have military-specific experience and access to other veteran support resources.
The VA expects calls to the Veterans Crisis Line to increase by as much as 150% due to Veterans having the ability to dial 988. VA Secretary Denis McDonough has stated that the VA has been increasing staff and prepping for increased caseloads in anticipation of the nationwide roll out of the 988 dialing code.
VA officials are hopeful that the 988 number will be easier to remember and provide an even faster response for Veterans in need of mental health intervention.
If you have questions about VA disability benefits, including mental health disabilities, please contact the experienced Veterans’ disability attorneys at Gardberg & Kemmerly, P.C. today for a free case evaluation. Gardberg & Kemmerly serves Veterans across the United States from their home office in Mobile, Alabama. Please feel free to call the office at 251-343-1111 or 1-800-332-1529 for a free consultation.
