The Federal Communications Commission has approved 9-8-8 as the new nationwide National Suicide Prevention Hotline.
U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, Chair of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee applauded the move Thursday. The new hotline will be operational by July 16, 2022.
“This three-digit number, 9–8–8, will serve as the new national suicide and mental health crisis hotline number, connecting callers in need of help with experts who can offer resources and hope to make it through a mental health crisis,” Moran said. “As suicide is on the rise among groups such as farmers and veterans, this easy-to-access number is vital for the health of thousands of Americans, and I commend the FCC for quickly taking this step to offer Americans greater access to life-saving support.”
The legislation unanimously passed the Senate in May. It was introduced by Moran along with Sen. Cory Gardner (R-Colo.).
The 9-8-8 line will eventually replace the current 10-digit number 1-800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK). It remains operational until that transition.
A recent study by the Department of Veterans Affairs found that on average more than 6,000 veterans die by suicide every year. Veterans and service members may reach the Veterans Crisis Line by pressing 1 after dialing, chatting online at www.veteranscrisisline.net, or texting 838255.
