Frequently Asked Questions
Calling the Hotline
Are other languages available for non-English speakers?
The Hotline provides tele-interpreter services as needed. This support is required for all members of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Does the Hotline provide services for the hearing impaired?
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has TTY capability, which can be accessed by calling 1-800-799-4TTY (4889).
Is the Hotline affiliated with the Veterans Crisis Line?
The Veterans Crisis Line can be reached by dialing 988 and pressing 1. Texts may be sent to 838255. Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline also welcomes calls from veterans, active duty, Guard, and those who have military family members.
Veterans have the choice to connect with the Idaho hotline or the Veterans Crisis Line.
How can I share feedback about my experience with the Hotline?
You can share feedback directly by using our “feedback” form. We value hearing about your experience so we may continually improve our crisis support for Idahoans.
988 Chat
988 Chat services are available 24/7.
Click here: www.988Lifeline.org
What should I expect during a chat session?
Our goal is to help you reduce stress, stay safe, and feel empowered to make decisions. You will be asked questions regarding your safety, feelings, and if you have thoughts of suicide. The crisis responder will work with you to create a safety plan if needed. If they feel you are in danger they will speak with you about accessing emergency services.
988 - Universal Crisis Number
What is 988?
The 988 dialing code operates through what was formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. It is a network of over 200+ locally operated and funded crisis centers around the country.
Congress designated 988 in 2020 and President Trump signed the bill into law. As a part of the federal government’s commitment to addressing the mental health crisis in America, unprecedented federal resources have been invested to scale up crisis call centers in support of 988.
Transition to 988 was an important step forward and offered an unprecedented opportunity to strengthen and transform crisis care in Idaho and the entire nation.
We anticipate that 988 will continue to grow and evolve over the years, much the way 911 and emergency medical services have grown over the past five decades.
Providing 24/7 access to trained crisis responders helps Idahoans who are experiencing suicidal thoughts or self-harm, those struggling with substance use, or other behavioral health crises that can make it difficult for an individual to take care of themselves or their family.
Promoting the Hotline
Can I use the Hotline logo?
The Hotline is a public service and our logo is available for anyone to use. Please visit our media resources page for more information.
Can I get Hotline printed materials?
Yes. The Hotline has materials available, including wallet cards and bookmarks. Send a message to outreach@idahocrisis.org and let us know what you need.
Can I link to the Hotline’s website through my organization’s website?
We appreciate and encourage organizations interested in promoting the Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline to provide a link on their website. High resolution logos are available on our media resources page.
How do I get a job at the Hotline?
For employment opportunities visit our career page.
Who is the contact for media inquiries?
Please send all media inquiries to Lee Flinn at lflinn@idahocrisis.org
Fundraising & Donations
How can I donate?
Donate by mail:
Idaho Crisis & Suicide Hotline, Attn. Jannus
3501 W. Elder Street, Suite 104
Boise, Idaho, 83705.
Please indicate the donation is for the Hotline.
If I donate, do I receive a receipt?
Donors will be provided a receipt via mail or email. ICSH is a program of Jannus, Inc., an Idaho nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible.
Can I donate on behalf of someone else?
Donors may contribute in memory or in honor of someone with the option of having a notification sent to the individual via regular mail or email.
Who do I contact if I have a question about a donation that’s not on this page?
If you have further questions, you may contact Lee Flinn at lflinn@idahocrisis.org.
Jannus, Inc.
What is Jannus?
Jannus, Inc. brings people together to change lives with programs in community health, public policy and economic opportunity. Jannus is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and the Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline is a program of Jannus.