Why are Social Media Posts Warning People Not to Call 988?

When the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline launched last month, many mental health providers, researchers and advocates celebrated. The shorter number would serve as an alternative to 911 for mental health emergencies. But not everyone felt the same way. Some advocates and people who had experiences with the mental health system took to social media to voice concerns about 988 and warn people not to call it. Why are some people saying not to call 988? This article by NPR reached out to the creators of some of the social media posts to ask them directly.