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Talk, text, or chat for mental health help

NYC 988 | NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH)

How it works

NYC 988 is a free, private mental health and substance use crisis line. Reach a counselor by phone, text, or chat 24/7, 365 days a year.

Chat online

Visit the NYC 988 website anytime to chat with a counselor.

Call 988

Specialized help is available for veterans, Spanish-speakers, and LGBTQI+ support (for ages 25 and under).

Call 711 then 988 if you’re hard of hearing and need relay service.

Call 911 if you’re in immediate danger or need emergency medical attention.

Text 988

Text “AYUDA” for Spanish or “Q” for LGBTQI+ support (for ages 25 and under).

Text 838255 if you’re a veteran.

Help is available anytime for

  • Stress, depression, and anxiety
  • Substance use and alcohol
  • Finding long-term counseling
  • Suicide prevention and crisis support
  • Peer support from people with similar experiences
  • Referrals to additional services

Counselors speak English, Spanish, and Chinese. Interpretation services are available in over 200 languages.


Eligibility requirements

NYC 988 doesn’t ask about immigration status.


Get help

Visit the website

Find other mental health services on the NYC 988 website.

Check out free mobile apps to help manage your health and emotional wellbeing.

Call 311

Ask for “NYC 988.”


Come back to it later.
We can send you a link to this page to help you get back to it when you’re ready.


Last Updated May 11, 2026

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