The holidays are usually viewed as a time of happiness and rejoicing. But for some people, it can be a period of painful reflection, sadness, lonlieness, anxiety and depression.
Even people who love the holidays can experience the blues during this busy season. They can be a time of high emotions and demands, which can leave a lot of people feeling stressed and exhausted.
The new 3-digit dialing code, 988, is for mental health crisis and suicide prevention. This 988 number will connect people to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Compassionate, accessible care and support will be available for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress, thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance abuse crisis. People can also dial 988 if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis intervention support.
The 988 line will operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for calls, texts, and chat. Learn more at www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmhas/initiatives/988