Vermont adopts 9-8-8 phone number for mental health support

July 16, 2022  |  By Waterbury Roundabout  

Jenney Samuelson, secretary of the Vermont Agency of Human Services, joins Gov. Phil Scott's press conference on July 12. Screenshot

Vermont is launching a new three-digit Suicide and Crisis Lifeline starting July 16 where callers will be immediately connected to counselors trained to provide support for individuals experiencing everything from emotional distress to a mental health crisis. 

The new number – 9-8-8 – will connect callers who are both experiencing challenges with their own mental health or those calling with regard to a family member, friend or someone who may need help.

Part of a national roll-out of 9-8-8, the service is free, confidential and available 24/7.

The Vermont Department of Mental Health worked to organize the new call center along with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and New York based Vibrant Emotional Health.  

“When we started this process over two years ago, Vermonters who called the Lifeline were routed to call centers in nearby states,” said Mental Health Deputy Commissioner Alison Krompf, the department’s statewide lead on suicide prevention. “Now we have Vermonters who are trained and ready to talk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. These are caring professionals who want to help.”

The line also connects with the Veterans Crisis Line by calling 9-8-8 and pressing 1. Callers who speak Spanish can press 2, and the national system provides interpretation services for over 150 additional languages.

Vermonters can also text "VT” to 741741 to get help and dial or text 833-888-2557 to connect with peer support through Pathways Vermont.

Gov. Phil Scott  announced these services at his press conference this week. State officials and a mental health provider discussed the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and world events on the mental health and well-being of Vermonters.

“What I hope Vermonters take away from this discussion is: It’s okay to not feel okay. Because you’re not alone, and there’s nothing to be ashamed of in getting some help or just taking some time to care for yourself,” Scott said. “I also want people to know there is still a lot of good out there, and there is always reason for hope.”