988:The new three-digit dialing code to connect to National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

As of July 16, 2022, a new three-digit dialing code (988) will be introduced in order to connect to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. 

This will provide people in the United States with a simpler and more direct way to access suicide prevention services. The lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, as well as prevention and crisis resources for individuals and families.

How this will simplify access to suicide prevention services to those suffering from anxiety and depression

It is often the case that those that are contemplating suicide are suffering from anxiety and/or depression. The dysregulation these challenges can impose on the brain can at times leave the thinking and reasoning part of our brain, the pre-frontal cortex, less activated, and the more primal, reactionary part of our brain, the Amygdala, “in charge.” For this reason, the new three-digit dialing code (988) will make it easier for people to access suicide prevention services when they really need them: when complex planning and thought is compromised. This will provide people in the United States with a simpler, easier to remember, and more direct way to connect with crisis counselors who can help.

The importance of suicide prevention and how this new hotline can help save lives

Suicide completion is the 2nd leading cause of death in the United States for those aged 10-34. In the year 2020, it has been estimated that 3 million adolescents (12-17) had serious thoughts about sucide, along with 3.8 million young adults (18-25). Each year, we lose more people to suicide than homicide. Suicide is preventable, and the new suicide prevention hotline (988) will make it easier for people to get the help they need.

Suicide is a preventable tragedy that takes the lives of too many people each year. The new three-digit suicide prevention hotline (988) will make it easier for people to get the help they need when they need it. This will provide a lifeline for those in crisis and could save many lives.

How to contact the suicide prevention hotline if you or someone you know is in need of help

As of June 16th, 2022, dial 988 on your phone. Trained counselors are available 24/7 to provide confidential support and resources. You are not alone. Spread the word, tell your friends. If you have a loved one that could use the support, post it on the fridge. Let’s make this a known resource!