988 vs 911 vs 211
Key differences
Understanding the differences between these services can help you connect with the one that’s right for your needs.
988
- Dedicated to urgent emotional and mental health support
- Individuals connect with a trained 988 counselor
- 988 is separate from law enforcement
911
- For all emergencies and physical dangers
- Callers connect with police, fire or ambulance services for immediate assistance
- These first responders have limited mental health training
211
- Non-emergency number, operates Monday–Friday, 9am–9pm
- Callers looking to connect with local resources, including food banks, shelters and substance use treatment options
- Operators are not trained in counseling or suicide prevention