Dear friend,

I am happy to share that after passing Congress with bipartisan support in 2020, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is live. 9-8-8 is the new nationwide calling code for suicide, mental health, and substance use crises. By calling or texting the lifeline, individuals will be connected to a trained crisis counselor who listens to them, offers support, and provides further resources if needed. The lifeline is confidential, free, and available 24/7.

More than half of Americans face mental health issues at some point in their lifetime — an epidemic that has reached crisis levels because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and is now the leading cause of death for Americans aged 10 to 34. More than ever, Americans need increased access and availability to mental health care and support. 
 
The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline works to address the growing need for crisis intervention by ensuring every caller receives the help and resources they need. The lifeline is administered by a network of crisis centers with knowledge of local resources and communities. Specifically, calls in our region will be routed to the DuPage County Health Department and the Suicide Prevention Services of America in Batavia. Studies have shown that callers feel less suicidal, less depressed, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking with a lifeline counselor.
 
Although we still have a long way to go, I am proud that we are taking a positive step forward in addressing the mental health crisis in our country. 9-8-8, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, will make it easier for Americans to get help for themselves or a loved one during a mental health emergency. To learn more, you can visit samhsa.gov/find-help/988. 
 
As your Member of Congress, I will continue fighting to expand the mental health resources available for our community. As always, my office is here to work for you. Please don’t hesitate to contact us by using any of the numbers listed below.

Sincerely,

Bill Foster
Member of Congress