FCC approves 3-digital suicide prevention phone line launching in 2022
By July 2022, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline will be reachable by the phone number 988. Image: Voyagerix/Istock
To offer those experiencing crises faster and easier access to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the Federal Communications Commission unanimously voted on Thursday to dedicate the three-digital number 988 to the hotline.
Instead of having to remember or look up a ten-digit 1-800 number in order to call the support center, it will be as simple as calling 911 or any of the other short-code numbers.
Regarding the matter, FCC chairman Ajit Pai stated, “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. That it’s a sign of strength, not one of weakness. We will let people know that they are not alone.”
Ajit also said that the FCC is considering offering a texting service in the future, as today’s youth are more attuned to that medium of communication rather than vocal phone calls.
The organization offers support to callers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
By July 16, 2022, Americans will be able to get in touch with the national hotline by dialing just 988. The currently existing ten-digit number will continue to be active as well. NVG
The Philippine Department of Health has said that every case of suicide is a tragedy that can be avoided. Thus, people who feel that they may be suffering from mental health problems and need help may call Hopeline hotlines:
- 804-HOPE (4673)
- 0917-558-HOPE (4673), or
- 2919 (toll-free number for Globe and TM subscribers)
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If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please reach out to the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH). Their crisis hotlines are available at 1553 (Luzon-wide landline toll-free), 0917-899-USAP (8727), 0966-351-4518, and 0908-639-2672. For more information, visit their website: (https://doh.gov.ph/NCMH-Crisis-Hotline)
Alternatively, you can contact Hopeline PH at the following numbers: 0917-5584673, 0918-8734673, 88044673. Additional resources are available at ngf-mindstrong.org, or connect with them on Facebook at Hopeline PH.
