Skip to Main Content

Mental Health: Hotlines & Suicide Prevention

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Call or Text 988

What to Expect

More information

If there is immediate danger, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911

Other hotlines

You're not alone. Help is a phone call or text away, 24/7. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out. These are confidential, reliable resources.

Lake County Crisis Care: Call 847-377-8088 to reach a trained crisis counselor. You do not have to give your name. Counselors can help you manage stress, anxiety, and depression. Information and referrals to other Lake County Health Department programs available.

Text-a-Tip: Text LAKECO to 1-844-823-5323 and a trained counselor will text you back within seconds. This anonymous text crisis hotline offers emotional support for middle and high school students. Use it if you need help or are concerned about a friend. Texts are received using phone number masking to preserve privacy. Or communicate through the Lake County Help app: download on Google Play or in the App Store.

The Trevor Project / LGBTQ+: Call 866-488-7386 to speak to a trained counselor. This service is for any young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgment-free place to talk.

211 Lake County: Call 211 or visit the website to connect with a highly trained expert who will lead you to the help you need. Available in English and Spanish. Translation services for 150+ languages. All calls are confidential. A service of the United Way Lake County.

Walk into the Lake County Health Department Community Health Center any time of day: 3002 Grand Avenue, Waukegan.

How to help 

The signs that someone is thinking about suicide include changes in behavior and mood, and how a person talks. Learn the warning signs, from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

If you're concerned about someone...

  • talk to them
  • ask “Are you thinking about suicide?"
  • let them know help is available
  • assist them in getting help
  • if there is immediate danger, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911