The Hotline for Mental Health in Shanghai is discussed. In a 2-year period, 117 people had called because they were thinking about attempting suicide. All expressed strong ideation. Most were experiencing emotional crises or psychosocial distress. Intervention with these callers included: assessment, problem solving support, preventive measures, termination & follow-up. It is suggested that this service can be a simple & practical crisis intervention approach for suicide prevention in Shanghai.