Congress Approves ‘988’ For National Suicide Hotline Number
Sep 21, 2020, 7:25 PM | Updated: Sep 22, 2020, 11:26 am
The early morning sun strikes the U.S. Capitol November 6, 2006. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)
(Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Utahns will be able to reach the National Suicide Prevention hotline by just dialing three numbers beginning the summer of 2022.
Congress passed the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act Monday, which would designate 988 as the new National Suicide Hotline Number. The bill will now be headed to President Donald Trump’s desk to be signed.
“This is a great day for our nation. Those who find themselves in a mental health crisis will now have the extra support that they need,” he said. “I’ve met with many across Utah whose loved ones have taken their own life. I’ve heard their stories, I’ve heard their pleas for help, and today, I am proud that we are able to provide a vital resource to those who need it most.”
Rep. Chris Stewart (R-UT2) presented the bill on the house floor Monday afternoon. He said he believes the 3-digit number will be easier for people in crisis to remember than the current 10-digit number.
“This easy-to-remember hotline will save lives. Paired with the real-time data collection from my Suicide Prevention Act, we will be more equipped to help reverse the tragic trend of suicide. Every life matters and we can all do our part to prevent suicide by providing love and support to our neighbors who may be struggling,” Stewart added.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention issued a statement:
“The historic passage of the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act will bring our national crisis response system into the 21st century. The designation of the 9-8-8 hotline number will make life-saving suicide prevention resources more accessible for people in emotional distress and we applaud Congressman Stewart’s leadership on this legislation.”
The number won’t go live until July 2022, so if you or anyone you know is in crisis or struggling with thoughts of suicide, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Crisis Hotlines
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Statewide/Salt Lake County Crisis Line: 801-587-3000
- Utah County Crisis Line: 801-691-5433
- Wasatch Mental Health Crisis Line: 801-373-7393
- Trevor Project Hotline for LGBTQ teens: 1-866-488-7386
Online Resources
- NAMI Utah: namiut.org
- Utah Chapter-American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: afsputah.org/chapter/utah
- Suicide Prevention Lifeline: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
