Intro what is 988?
The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act, 1-800-273-8255, was signed into law in 2020. Now the three-digit number 988 will be the new number for suicide and mental health crisis. Telephone services and text providers in the U.S. and the five major U.S. territories are required by the FCC to activate 988 no later than July 16.
The main goal of this three-digit number is to make it easier for people to call for help. The longer number is a nuisance to many individuals who need immediate help, and the problem with 911 is it wasn't set up to address mental health needs.
So how does 988 work?
988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code. It will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline automatically. The 988 dialing code will be available to everyone across the United States starting on July 16, 2022.
If you or a loved one is suffering from suicidal issues and need someone to talk to, please try this hotline.
Again, The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline's 10-digit number — 1-800-273-8255 — will remain active, but calls will be routed to 988.
Learn More
Lifline.org: Click Here
Veterans: Click Here
