9-8-8: The First 45 Days Webinar and Media Availability

Members of the media are invited to join DBHDD Commissioner Judy Fitzgerald and the 9-8-8 Steering Team for an update on the first 45 days of the gradual rollout of 9-8-8 in Georgia.

We will be providing data on call volume, wait times, and other demographic data on 9-8-8 and other state-level calls for individuals in a mental health or substance use crisis.

What is 9-8-8?

9-8-8 is more than just an easy-to-remember number—it’s a direct connection to compassionate, accessible care and support for anyone experiencing a behavioral health-related crisis – whether that is thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress.

If you dial 9-8-8, you will be connected to a trained staff member who can help address immediate needs and connect the callers to behavioral healthcare resources - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,365 days a year.

People can also dial 9-8-8 if they are worried about a loved one who may need behavioral health counseling.

9-8-8 is a game changer in addressing the stigma associated with seeking help for those who are experiencing mental health and substance abuse crises. The three-digit dialing code makes it easier for anyone in Georgia – and across the country – to seek help and support when they need it.

In Georgia, 9-8-8 calls are answered by the trained and caring professionals at the Georgia Crisis and Access Line, an information and crisis response line which has served the state for more than 15 years.

When: Thursday, September 8, 2022, 1:00 pm EST *
Where: Registration Link for stakeholders and members of the media

*Commissioner Fitzgerald will be available for interviews with members of the media in-person at 2 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, GA and via Zoom after the 1pm EST webinar on September 8, 2022. See contact information below.