America’s New Suicide Prevention Hotline Is Already Saving Thousands of Lives

988: New suicide prevention hotline is already saving lives

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Since it became live, the 988 National Suicide Prevention Hotline has experienced a 45% increase in call volume compared to August 2021.

Image Credit: iStockphoto

October 14, 2022

As a millennial, the number 911 was so familiar to me growing up that when I found it had only come about during my mother’s childhood, I couldn’t believe it. What did people do before 911? It sounded terrifying.

I hope future generations one day feel the same way about the nation’s new suicide hotline, implemented just this year. During his time as chair of the FCC, Ajit Pai oversaw the initiative to create this resource, which can now be reached by dialing 988.

Beginning on July 16, 2022 the 988 dialing code will be available nationwide to connect to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, @800273TALK, through a phone call, text, or chat. #SuicidePrevention

— The FCC (@FCC) April 19, 2022

If you’ve had the good fortune to never be in desperate need of mental health care, help for you or a loved one, you might have no idea just how vitally needed this number was. Previously, calls to suicide prevention lines would frequently come with long wait times, being connected to people outside of your region, and confusion on the other end, as well-meaning people struggled to navigate the complexities of our mental healthcare system and best direct those in need.

At one time, I recall trying to maneuver this system on behalf of a friend in distress and thinking, ‘If I were myself in the throes of depression or anxiety right now, there’s no way I could do this.’

Proud of the work we did @FCC to establish 988 as a three-digit number for #suicideprevention and mental health. I know its nationwide activation will save lives and I hope it’ll become a part of our common consciousness, like 911. For those who are struggling: you are not alone. https://t.co/DOhIEWmjzI

— Ajit Pai (@AjitPai) April 20, 2022

It turns out, I was not alone.

Since it became live, the 988 National Suicide Prevention Hotline has experienced a 45% increase in call volume compared to August 2021. And not only are more people reaching out, but it also looks like they’re getting the help they need.

Early data shows that thousands of lives may have been saved in one month alone since the transition. Wait times have also decreased, plunging from

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