Those who work on the front lines of emergencies are describing the new 9-8-8 mental health crisis line as life-saving. The national number has been active for about six months at this point. Take a rare look inside a 988 call center and see what's behind an uptick in younger people reaching out for help. The national 9-8-8 mental health crisis helpline is free to call available anytime, day or night, by phone or by text by dialing 9-8-8.