Crisis Lines
Free. 24/7. Confidential.
988 Suicide + Crisis Lifeline
- Call OR text 988.
- FREE.
- 24/7.
- Trained crisis counselors.
- Spanish: press 2.
- Veterans: press 1.
- LGBTQ+: press 3 or 988lifeline.org.
- Sometimes just need someone to listen.
Senior-specific lines
- Friendship Line for Seniors — 1-800-971-0016. Lonely? Just need to talk?
- Eldercare Locator — 1-800-677-1116.
- AARP Fraud Watch — 1-877-908-3360.
- Long-term Care Ombudsman — 1-800-677-1116. Nursing home issues.
- Adult Protective Services — local. Elder abuse.
- All FREE.
When to call
- Suicidal thoughts.
- Anxiety attack.
- Just need someone to listen.
- Thinking dark thoughts.
- Lonely 2am can't sleep.
- Overwhelmed by grief.
- Substance use crisis.
- You don't need to be in extreme crisis.
What to expect
- Counselor listens.
- No judgment.
- Not required to give name.
- Help you find resources.
- De-escalate if needed.
- Won't send police unless emergency.
- 30 min average call.
For the person you're worried about
- Ask directly: "Are you having thoughts of suicide?"
- Doesn't plant idea — opens conversation.
- Listen without judgment.
- Don't leave alone if at risk.
- Remove access to means (guns, meds).
- Call 988 for guidance.
- Get them to ER if imminent danger.
Save these numbers
Save 988 + Friendship Line in phone now. Hopefully won't need. But ready if do. Tell trusted family member you have these. Senior suicide rate highest of any age. Help available. Use it.