¡Los servicios de texto y chat de 988 Lifeline ya están disponibles en Español!

Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Hearing Loss

Our network of contact centers offers many services for people who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing, including veterans.

Reach Out

You can reach out to 988 Videophone by calling 988 with a VP number.

If you need support now, please text 988 or chat using the links at the top of this page.

If you encounter any issues accessing support, please Contact Us.

How To Get Your Own Videophone

To get a videophone, you typically need to sign up with a Video Relay Service (VRS) provider, which will provide you with a dedicated videophone device or app that allows you to connect with a sign language interpreter to communicate with hearing individuals over the phone; you can usually apply for a videophone through their website or by contacting their customer service directly.

Key points about getting a videophone:

Who qualifies:

  • Primarily people who are deaf or Hard of Hearing and primarily use American Sign Language (ASL) to communicate.

VRS provider:

  • You need to choose a VRS provider that is FCC certified.

Application process:

  • Contact the VRS provider to discuss your needs and go through the application process.

Device options:

  • Some providers offer dedicated videophone devices or apps that can be used on your computer or mobile phone

For additional information on VRS Providers, visit the FCC.

How To Take Care of Yourself

If you’re struggling, you can videophone, call, text, or chat online with the 988 Lifeline. We’re available 24/7 and confidential. There are caring counselors available to listen and support you without judgment. When contacting the 988 Lifeline, there is no need to reveal your condition unless you choose to. The counselor will be able to support you either way.

Make a safety plan.

Have a step-by-step plan ready for if/when you feel depressed, suicidal, or in crisis, so you can start at step one and continue through the steps until you feel safe. Having a template on hand with an established plan may be helpful, or you can get help and guidance at mysafetyplan.org/.

Resources for people who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or have hearing loss:

If you are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, you can chat with a 988 Lifeline counselor 24/7 by:

  • 988 Videophone – Read the terms of service.
  • Online chat – Chat with 988.
  • 988 Text – Send any message to 988 to start a text conversation.
  • For TTY Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

If you’re having trouble accessing the 988 Videophone, you can Contact Us to share the technical challenges you’re experiencing so we can get things fixed.

If you are a Veteran or service member with hearing loss or are concerned about someone who is, there are several ways to contact the Veterans Crisis Line:

  • Text with a Veterans Crisis Line responder – Send a text message to 838255
  • Online chat with a Veterans Crisis Line responder: Chat with the VCL