It will be 988.
Frederick, Md. (KM) – Starting on Saturday, a new telephone number will be available for anyone in the country experiencing a mental health crisis such as contemplating suicide. Those individuals can call 988 and be connected to counselors at local call centers 24-hours per day, seven days a week. These counselors have received specialized training to provide support, and link up callers to mental health services over the phone.
In Frederick, callers will be connected with the Mental Health Association.
According to Delegate Karen Lewis Young’s office, the MHA’s 2021 annual report says it received 51,667 calls, and provided more than 2,700 suicide assessments to individuals and families. in the Frederick Community. This occurred prior to the phone number changing to 988.
Maryland currently has eight certified crisis call centers across the state, which will answer calls under the new 988 number beginning on Saturday.
By Kevin McManus
