Missouri’s 988 Crisis Line Offers Lifesaving Support—No Matter the Circumstance

Farmington, Mo. (KFMO) - When someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, they now have a simple, three-digit number they can call: 988.

Launched nationally in 2022, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is Missouri’s direct connection to compassionate, confidential support for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress—whether it’s thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use concerns, or emotional distress.

Whitney Shumway, Vice President of the St. Francois County Mental Health Board, says the line is available to anyone, at any time.

That philosophy—that each individual defines their own crisis—is at the heart of the 988 system. Whether someone is overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with addiction, feeling isolated, or dealing with thoughts of self-harm, trained crisis counselors are standing by 24/7 to help.

Callers in Missouri who dial 988 are connected with local counselors who are trained in de-escalation, support, and connecting individuals with additional services when needed. The goal isn’t just to talk people down from the brink—it’s to walk with them through whatever struggle they’re facing.

Shumway emphasizes that reaching out doesn’t require a diagnosis or a dramatic situation. It just requires feeling like you need someone to talk to.

In St. Francois County and across the state, the 988 Lifeline is part of a broader effort to reduce stigma around mental health and create easier access to care.

To learn more about 988 or mental health resources in your area, visit 988lifeline.org or dial 988 from any phone.