Suicide among young Americans declines in first years of 988 hotline

A study found the 988 crisis hotline is linked to an 11% drop in U.S. suicide deaths among teens and young adults—about 4,400 fewer deaths since 2022. While researchers cannot prove the hotline alone caused the decline, evidence suggests it played a major role, especially in states with higher call usage. Experts say the service helps de-escalate crises and connect individuals to care, though it is not a complete solution.  They also argue that continued funding and expansion will be needed to better understand the hotline's impact.

https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/suicide-among-young-americans-declines-first-years-988-hotline-2026-04-22/

Cindy L. Carter, Ph.D.