Beginning July 16, 988 will be the new three-digit dialing code connecting callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and will be accessible to everyone in the U.S.
The hotline can be reached via call, text or chat and will connect callers to trained counselors from the Suicide Prevention Lifeline Network, who listen, provide support and connect them to resources if necessary.
The network of Lifeline centers has been in operation since 2005, and numerous studies have shown that callers feel less suicidal, less depressed, less overwhelmed and more hopeful after use.
The Lifeline's current phone number, 1-800-273-8255, will remain available to callers even after 988 is launched.