GREENVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – State and federal leaders gathered in Eastern Carolina to honor the success of the 988 suicide & crisis lifeline.

On July 16th, 2022, 988 became known as the suicide and crisis number.

“It’s something that we can all know and share and be empowered to help our friends and our neighbors to give them the tool to that road of healing and recovery,” said NCDHHS Secretary Kody Kinsley.

Local and state leaders toured the REAL Crisis Center in Greenville Thursday to see the work and success that happens everyday.,

‘We’re so honored to be here at this facility where heroes are working behind me, answering and taking contacts from individuals that are in need of mental health behavioral health support,” said Federal 988 Director Monica Johnson.

While there was a suicide hotline before July 2022, it wasn’t as widely recognized. Therefore, the director of the REAL crisis center in Greenville says there’s been a 30% growth in callers since the number was launched.

“We want more people to know that 988 exists. We want more people to receive the right support when they need it, and we want to be accessible to anyone,” said Johnson.

The center is contacted an average of 8,000 times each month. Although it’s a striking reminder of how many people need help, supporters feel the growth is mainly because the number is easier to remember.

After officials toured the Greenville REAL crisis center, they headed to Durham to host a round table to learn more about and highlight the success of the 988 line.

The center operates 24/7, so anyone can call, text, or chat online.