988 is a national hotline available 24/7 that people can call, text, or chat with when they are experiencing a crisis related to behavioral health. This hotline can provide a safe, free, and confidential outlet for those who need to express their emotions and thoughts. 988 can also connect callers to local emergency services.

988 is available to all people at any time, with services offered by interpreter assistance in over 240 languages, including American Sign Language (ASL).

By promoting this resource, Orange County Health Department and partners are sharing a safe, free, anonymous outlet for members of the community to utilize during a behavioral health crisis. Many people in Orange County lack access to providers such as therapists for numerous reasons such as cost and scheduling, and this service is valuable to our and other communities. 

1. Over the course of 2024, the Orange County Health Department made a goal to share resource information, including the 988 Hotline, at community events across the county where people of all ages, races, and other demographics were invited. Mental health is a topic that affects everyone, no matter the demographics, so it is essential to provide this information to all. The Health Promotion and Education Services team ordered free flyers, magnets, cards, posters, and other materials that have been given at these community events, placed in health department waiting areas, and placed in other public areas such as the county public libraries. This information has also been shared with community partners and on our webpages and social media accounts.
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3. In addition to the 988 Hotline, informational materials on the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline have been provided using the same methods. The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline offers free 24/7 assistance to new or expecting mothers experiencing depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns. This hotline includes interpreter assistance in over 60 languages.