988 vs. 911
988 is the new three-digit dialing code where compassionate, accessible care and support are available for those experiencing mental health-related crises, including thoughts of suicide or a substance use crisis. People can also dial 988 if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.
911 serves as an emergency and public safety dispatch system, where the focus is to dispatch emergency medical services, firefighters, and police as needed.
Resources
Your campus should have emergency/crisis resources such as help lines, emergency numbers, emergency walk-in hours at the health center, and on-call campus health coverage. Find out what resources are available (a good place to ask is Student Affairs) and keep their contact information handy.
