Veterans Crisis Line
Dial 988 then press 1 or start a confidential chat
What to gather: None needed to call
Source type: Federal
Date checked: 2026-07-04
Safety note: Confirm number is still routed through 988 press 1 before relying on it
Book update page
If Someone May Be in Crisis
This Vols4Vets.com page keeps current links, phone numbers and source notes for the book chapter.
Official-source caution: Vols4Vets.com is a routing companion to the book. Official agencies, crisis lines, providers and program pages control action, eligibility, deadlines, phone numbers and forms.
Who this helps
Veteran, service member, family, caregiver, friend, pastor, neighbor.
Best first step
Call 988, then press 1, text 838255 or use the official Veterans Crisis Line chat. If there is immediate danger, call 911 or emergency services first.
What to gather
Nothing. Call first. Details can come after.
Safety notes
- Do not wait for the perfect words before you call. Any call is better than no call.
- Do not assume someone else already made the call. Confirm it yourself.
- Do not send crisis details in a casual text. Use the official crisis line instead.
Resource cards for this chapter
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988
What to gather: Nothing required before calling
Source type: Official federal crisis support
Date checked: 2026-07-05
Safety note: Starting point only. Verify directly. Do not treat as legal, medical, tax, financial or VA claims advice.
Website update page purpose
Use this page to check current official links, phone numbers and source notes that can change after the printed book.
Back to Start Here When It Is Urgent
Last source package check: 2026-07-06. This page does not provide legal, medical, tax, financial or VA claims advice.