The 988 Timeout Challenge

USC-MHS is inviting athletes, coaches, teams, schools and sport organizations across the country to take 8:08 — not for strategy or substitutions, but for mental health.

The goal is not to solve mental-health challenges in eight minutes. It is to start a conversation that might not otherwise happen.

September.

The timeout.

Call or text for support.

Your Coach Toolkit

When you take the pledge, you'll receive the 988 Timeout Challenge Coach Toolkit to help you plan your 8:08 moment and bring the challenge to your team or organization.

Take the Challenge

This September, I pledge to take 8 minutes and 8 seconds with my team to create space for a conversation about mental health. I will use this time to check in, encourage open conversation, remind athletes that asking for help is a sign of strength, and make sure they know that support is available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Month 9 + 8:08 = 988. Take the timeout. Start the conversation. Keep it going.

When you pledge, you'll receive an email with the Coach Toolkit to help you plan your 8:08 timeout.

Call or text 988 or use the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline chat for free, confidential support.

Take the 988 Timeout Challenge.