988, The Newest Emergency Hotline, Launched For Suicide Prevention

Beginning July 16, 2022, those in need of support from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline will be able to receive help with just the tap of three digits, with the crisis service introducing ‘988’ as a shorter, more efficient way of connecting to its original 1-800-273-8255 hotline.

Upon calling or texting ‘988’, citizens in the US will be connected to trained counselors that will listen, understand their problems, provide support, and point them to the right resources. 

This change comes as the digits were designated as the number for nationwide mental health support by the Federal Communications Commission in July 2020, and signed into law in October 2020.

According to the Lifeline’s website, the network—which comprises over 200 crisis centers—has been operating since 2005, with studies showing that after speaking to a counselor, callers reported feeling less suicidal, less depressed, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful. 

As per Gizmodo, in addition to the new number, the network will be rebranding as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. 

With suicide being the 12th leading cause of death in the country, and 45,979 people taking their own lives in 2020, not including the 1.2 million suicide attempts, there is a clear need for accessible mental health support in the US.

Hopefully, the new, streamlined number will be just as memorable and effective as 911 for those reaching out for help. 

[via Gizmodo and 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, cover image via Linda Gilliland | Dreamstime.com]