18002738255

18002738255 refers to the toll-free telephone number 1-800-273-8255, widely known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline in the United States. The Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to anyone in suicidal distress or experiencing a crisis, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Calls are answered by trained crisis counselors at a network of local and national centers, who can offer listening support, assess safety, and connect callers with appropriate local resources. The service is available to residents of the United States and its territories, and translation services are available for non-English speakers.

The Lifeline was established in 2005 as a program administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services agency SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) and staffed by a nationwide network of crisis centers. The 1-800-273-8255 number became closely associated with the Lifeline, with the mnemonic TALK linked to the digits. In 2022, the federal designation of 988 as the nationwide three-digit crisis number aimed to improve access to mental health support. Calls to Lifeline numbers are integrated with the 988 system, and 1-800-273-8255 remains active and may be redirected to the local Lifeline center or to 988 depending on caller location and response options.

In addition to phone support, the Lifeline offers online chat and text options through partner services, and emphasizes confidentiality and accessibility. For emergencies with imminent danger, callers should contact local emergency services (such as 911 in the United States).