Illustration: Eniola Odetunde/Axios
The Federal Communications Commission is expected on Thursday to designate 988 as the new nationwide number to reach a suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline.
Why it matters: The change should make it easier for Americans to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which connects to a network of local crisis centers. Surveys and experts suggest a rise in people undergoing mental health crises since the start of the pandemic.
Yes, but: The 988 code will not be active immediately after the FCC votes on establishing it at a Thursday morning meeting.
- Phone companies must implement the change by July 16, 2022, according to a draft of the agency's order.
If you have any thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please pick up the phone right now and call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.