Three-Digit Number 988 Approved by Federal Government for National Suicide Prevention Hotline
The National Suicide Prevention Hotline gets permission to have its number changed to 988.
The Federal Communications Commission has approved a new three-digit number for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, which will take effect in 2002. Suicidal callers will be able to reach out for help by dialing 988, instead of the current, 10-digit number 1-800-273-8255.
"My hope is that by establishing a government-backed 988 suicide and mental health three-digit dialing code, on par with the 911 dialing code all Americans know for emergencies, we will send a powerful signal that there is nothing shameful about seeking help in times of crisis," said FCC chairman Ajit Pai.
"It's a sign of strength, not one of weakness. We will let people know that they are not alone," Pai said.
Calls to suicide prevention help lines have increased during the coronavirus pandemic, commissioners noted.
Since 2008, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is the No. 2 cause of death for Americans aged 10 to 34.
RELATED STORIES
Trending on Inside Edition

Florida Woman Facing New Charges After Allegedly Asking Inmates to Murder Prime Witness in Her Homicide Case
Crime
Missing Teen Tanvi Marupally, Who Mave Have Feared Deportation, Found Safe After Disappearing in January
Human Interest
Bryan Kohberger Murder Investigation: Prosecutors Reveal Existence of Internal Probe of Officer
Crime
California Mom Who Was Taken to ER Says Viral 'Bucket Challenge' Is Not Fun and Games
News
New York Woman Says Her Late Mother's Caretaker Is Now Squatting in Upper East Side Apartment
Human Interest
Michigan Student Pilot Lands 3rd Solo Flight After Losing Nose Gear With Help From Veteran Pilot on the Ground
Inspirational