Need help getting through a crisis? You can now call 988, or contact these Boise resources
Idaho is joining the rest of the country in introducing a new three-digit number to be more easily connected to the nationwide Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Along with the current number, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), people can call, text or chat with someone by dialing 988. The new number isn’t replacing any crisis call centers in Idaho but adds a level of accessibility.
“Idaho is joining states and territories across the nation in transition to the easy-to-remember, three-digit number for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a top priority for me and our entire leadership here at the Department of Health and Human Services,” said Miriam Delphin-Rittmon, assistant secretary for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, in a news release.
“I am committed to continued work with our national partners to achieve a smooth transition, and I greatly appreciate the partnership with our state and tribal leaders in Idaho,” Delphin-Rittmon continued.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, a branch of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, partnered with the Federal Communications Commission and the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs to create more accessible crisis outreach.
The Idaho House of Representatives and Idaho Senate voted to adopt House Concurrent Resolution 11 during the 2021 legislative session, which signaled the Legislature’s support of the 988 lifeline.
“988 will improve access to mental health support for all Idahoans, especially those in rural communities with few health care providers,” the resolution reads.
Spanish speakers can reach the Spanish Language line by pressing 2 after dialing the crisis line, and there are interpretation services in over 250 languages. Text and chat services are available only in English.
Veterans and service members can reach a Veterans Crisis Line by pressing 1 after dialing the crisis line.
People who are deaf, hard of hearing and TTY users can dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255. People who are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support also can call or text 988. It’s available 24/7 and is free and confidential.
Local Crisis Resources
Here are some crisis hotlines based in Ada County or elsewhere in Idaho that are available to all residents.
Regional Behavioral Health Crisis Lines
Ada County: 208-334-0808
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare provides 24/7 voice-only regional crisis lines for people who need to talk or need referral information for local health crisis resources. The phone number listed above is for Region 4, which includes Ada, Boise, Elmore and Valley Counties, but numbers for other regions can be found on the department’s website.
The state also provides a 24/7 crisis and suicide hotline that offers voice and text support which can be reached at 208-398-HELP (4357).
Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
The Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline has adopted the 988 number along with its traditional TALK number, but it also provides an online chat function that is available 24/7. You can also text 209-398-HELP (4357).
Pathways Community Crisis Center of Southwest Idaho
(208) 489-8311
Pathways Community Crisis Center is a non-profit organization in Boise that provides help to people who are having a mental health crisis or are struggling with a drug or alcohol problem. Along with providing support for mental health and drug addiction, the non-profit also helps find housing, financial assistance and shelter.
Faces of Hope Victim Center
(208) 577-4400
Faces of Hope is a free service that offers support for victims of domestic and sexual violence, elder and child abuse and stalking. The center has partnered with 17 local public and private partners to provide various resources, including forensic examinations, safety planning and self-defense classes.
National Crisis Text Line
Text: 741741
The National Crisis Text Line is available anywhere in the U.S. by texting HOME to 741741. The first two responses are automated before a trained crisis counselor will respond and help a person sort through their thoughts and emotions. A typical conversation lasts between 15 to 45 minutes, according to the text line’s website.
This story was originally published July 18, 2022 at 1:02 PM.
