Advising People on Using 988 Versus 911: Practical Approaches for Healthcare Providers
December 2024
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
This Practical Guide provides key considerations for guiding people in the appropriate use of 988 and 911. By offering clear explanations, real-world scenarios, and addressing common concerns, providers can prepare people and their trusted networks to make informed decisions based on the urgency and nature of their needs. The guide emphasizes the distinctions between 988 and 911, aiming to reduce confusion and ensure timely, appropriate responses to both behavioral health crises and physical emergencies. It offers practical steps for integrating crisis care into daily practice, real world scenarios, sample scripts, and de-escalation techniques.