Source: Health Policy Institute of Ohio
With suicides on the rise, the U.S. government wants to make the national crisis hotline easier to reach (Source: “Gov’t wants a New 911-Like Number Just for Suicide Hotline,” Toledo Blade, August 15, 2019).
Once implemented, people will just need to dial 988 to seek help. Currently, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline uses a 10-digit number, 800-273-TALK (8255). Callers are routed to one of 163 crisis centers, where counselors answered 2.2 million calls last year.
A law passed last year required the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to study assigning a three-digit number for suicide prevention, like 911 for emergencies or 311 for city services. The FCC said in a recent report that there is “overwhelming support” for a three-digit number because it would be easier for distressed people to get help.