In October of last year, dialing a local phone number began requiring dialing the area code and number. This was in preparation for the launch of the 988 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. That launch is this Saturday. Starting on July 16th, the new three-digit dialing code will route callers to the 988 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
This has been available in some parts of the country, but it becomes a nationwide three digit hotline beginning Saturday.
When people call, text, or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing 988 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary.
The current Lifeline number (1-800-273-8255) will always remain available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis, even after 988 is launched nationally.
