We’ve all been dialing the area code – even for local calls – since last October 24th. This weekend, the reason for that becomes reality. It’s the 9-8-8 code that puts one in touch with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. That code joins other well-known numbers like 911 for emergencies, and 511 for travel information when you’re on the road.
The change was put in motion two years ago when the Federal Communications Commission adopted 988 as the nationwide, easy-to-remember, 3-digit calling code for Americans in crisis to connect with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors. The change was needed because of the number of devices using the national telephone network…an estimated 300 million cellphones alone…and setting aside a 3-digit nationwide code couldn’t be done while some areas still used only 7-digit dialing.
Right now, anyone at risk needing the National Suicide Prevention Hotline will have to call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to connect, but on Saturday that becomes as easy as dialing 988. And one more change was put in motion last November: those wishing to use text will also be able to contact the Hotline by texting to 988, starting on Saturday.
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