It’s been more than a month since the launch of the 988 Mental Health Hotline and according to officials from Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center, it’s been very active.

The simple three-digit number to call is when one is having a mental health crisis and has no one to talk to. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline went live last month and it’s designed to provide 24/7 free and confidential emotional support around the country, including territories such as Guam. 988 number connects the caller to a certified crisis center on the island, that center being the GBHWC.

Agency executive director Therese Arriola shared that since the crisis number went live, activity has been quite high. "Since its launch, we have received in July alone, our hotline received 1,249 calls," she confirmed. "Of those calls, from July 16, 208 were from the lifeline. Top reasons for calls: loneliness, resource information, family issues, frustration and anxiety."

Arriola added, "I’m happy to report that 95% of calls derived from 988 on Guam were answered. You might ask, 'What happened to the 5%?', because I asked that. Well, the 5% are calls that hang up before they’re actually connected, but we still have a recording of it."

Arriola added that she wants those who are in need of mental support to know that they are never alone and that should they need someone to talk to, the mental health professionals handling the hotline are there to help.

"There really isn’t any reason why anyone will ever feel like they’re alone and they have to navigate those stresses in life alone. Guam Behavioral Health is here," she said reassuringly. "We’re open 24 hours a day, as well as, you can walk up to the front door, open 24 hours a day or you can call the 988 number. Either way, there is people here who can help you."

There are between eight to twelve mental health professionals who answer the 988 calls and all are certified to do so. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health issue, the 988 Crisis Hotline is one call away.