The National Suicide Prevention LifeLine will soon start using 988 as its threedigit dialing number. The new three-digit number, which will be used by every state across the country to identify people who need help, will begin operating on July 16.

Both officials from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and the U.S Federal Communications Commission (FCC) said that the easy to remember number like 988 will be easier for people in crisis to reach out for help and will also likely decrease the stigma surrounding suicide. Even after 988 is launched nationwide, it will still be able to reach the Lifeline via its current 10 digit phone number 1-800 273 8255.

“A direct three digit phone number to trained National Suicide Prevention LifeLine counselors will open the door to millions of Americans who need help while sending the message to our country that healing, hope and help are happening every single day.” Hannah Collins, a spokesperson from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, told Health.

Here are some key details about the new Lifeline phone number

A national network of local crisis hotlines that provides free and confidential emotional support for people in suicidal crisis or who are experiencing emotional distress operates 24 hours a day seven days a week in the U.S. However, currently, accessing these services requires calling a 10-digit phone numbers.

Callers who dial 988 beginning July 16 will continue having access to the same confidential help in times of distress or when they’re experiencing a mental health crisis. Those who need help will be able to text the access number, said Colin.

The lifeline functions much like the 911 emergency line does when it comes to medical emergencies.

When people call or text the Lifelines, they will first hear a greeting message while their calls or texts are routed to their local Lifelines network crisis centers. These include over 200 centers around the U.S. After that, call recipients will be connected to behavioral healthcare support and experienced counselors who belong to the Lifeline Network.

“Lifeline Network’s infrastructure has existed since 2005 and has been there for those in crisis, and will be the foundation of 988.”

The crisis workers and counsellors who provide support via the LifeLine have all been trained to hear and understand any problems callers may be facing, and then connect them to appropriate resources.

Counselors may assess clients’ needs and refer them to appropriate services. They may also provide follow-up care for clients who are at high risk for suicide and/or poor mental health outcomes. If an even greater need for support is required, the crisis counselor will contact other specialists to connect the person to mobile crisis response teams

Anyone who is thinking of suicide, wants emotional support, or is concerned about a loved one or a friend can call the 988 support line or the 10-digit National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

“This is a 24/7 mental health crisis hotline and so it is available at any time of the day or night when you need it.” But even if you don’t think you’ll need it, when you actually do, it’s there. That’s what makes this different because you can’t always get into contact with a healthcare provider or primary care doctor at any time.

If you’re wondering if you should call, then call. Don’t hesitate, because they can help you figure out the next steps to take.

Why Simplified Access To The Lifeline is Critical

Suicide has ranked as one of the top ten causes of death in the United State since 2008, according to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Despite the fact that suicide rates have declined from their peak in 1999, suicide remains the tenth leading cause of death in America today.

According to the National Suicide Prevention Lifelines, the suicide rate has increased nearly 30 percent since 1999. More importantly, the rate has increased by an average of 1.8% per year in 49 out of 50 US states over the past 10 years.

“For far too long, our system of mental health crisis services has lacked funding and has not received the respect it deserves,” Collins said. “Now we will change that by providing the evidence-based crisis interventions that the 988 crisis phone line will offer.”

Not only is 998 a simpler number to remember than 999, but it also gives people easy access to mental healthcare services in times of crisis.

“Just shortening it down to 988 makes it easier to remember and accessible in all 50 states,” Gallagher said. “It’s a big step for mental health because it breaks down the stigma of mental illness.”

As part of the change to 988, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is also requiring text providers such as AT&T and T-Mobile to support direct texting and calls to the National Suicide Prevention Line through 988.