988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Effective April 9, Ohio law requires each city, local, and exempted village school district, chartered nonpublic school, community school, STEM school, and college-preparatory boarding school serving students in any grade 9 through 12 to include the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline telephone number on all of the following, if provided or used by the school:

• Student identification cards issued after April 9;
• Planners issued to students after April 9; and
• Any electronic portal administered by the district or school that may be accessed by students.

The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services provides resources that may help schools with updating materials, including the 988 Toolkit and Materials Generator.

The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, free, and confidential support to Ohioans in a mental health crisis. Ohioans can call or text “988” to reach a trained specialist for help and support. Contact 988ohio@mha.ohio.gov for questions about the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.