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On October 17, 2020, CNN International reported that “the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act” became law, passed by the Senate, Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the House of Representatives, and signed by the President. The law will make 9-8-8 the national phone number for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. 988 will become the hotline’s number in 2022 as necessary infrastructure must be put into place before the phone number change becomes operational.

The FCC estimates that implementation costs will be around $570 million in the first year and around $175 million in the second year. Given the high rates of suicide ideation in especially young people and people of color, the effects of making the telephone number easier to remember are predicted to outweigh the costs.

Once implemented, the bipartisan law allows for states to collect money to support increased volume following the number change. The law will also encourage government health agencies to report to Congress with their strategies for supporting high-risk populations such as minority groups and those living in rural areas.

John Greden, M.D., U-M Depression Center Founder and Director Emeritus, was appointed to the State of Michigan’s Suicide Prevention Commission in April. The commission serves to use information about causes, factors, and prevention strategies for suicide to initiate improvements in Michigan. Regarding the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act, Dr. Greden, says: 

“Suicide has always been a major public health risk and rates tragically have been increasing.  Those struggling with suicidal ideation and impulses too often don’t know where to turn. Having “911” as an easily-remembered number has proven so beneficial for emergencies that “988” will soon be rolled out as a similar number for helping counteract suicide tragedies. There will be a time delay to enable the country to develop effective responses to meet the anticipated increased demands. Within the State of Michigan, we need to commit to using this opening to develop globally leading preventive strategies. We need to work together to save lives.”

Unlike the Crisis Text Line, which is a text-only service for those in crisis, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline will take both calls and online chat messages from those seeking emotional support. Both the National Suicide Hotline and Crisis Text Line are free, confidential, and accessible to high-risk populations. These platforms’ use of technology allows for improved service of LGBTQ+ youth, people of color, other minorities, individuals in rural areas, and those without access to affordable mental health care.

Until the number change is implemented on July 16, 2020, those in need of support for suicidal thoughts or emotional distress should call the hotline at 1-800-273-8255, turn to their online chat, or text the Crisis Text Line at 741-741.