Sangamon Sun

The Federal Communication Commission (FCC) has approved a new 988 phone hotline to include the option to send a text message asking for help in addition to a phone call.

The move not only reflects the growing need for such a line during the COVID-19 and opioid crisis, but the fact that more people than ever prefer to text message rather than make a phone call.

"We know that not everyone may be able to make a phone call or be comfortable making a phone call. The ability to text 988 makes it easier for more people to easily access help during a mental health crisis," Hannah Wesolowski, interim director of government relations, policy & advocacy for National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) told ABC News.

Beginning July 16, 2022, dialing 988 will direct calls to the National Suicide Prevention line. Text messaging to the lifeline center will also begin at that time.

Like 911, the new number (not currently live) is an easy-to-remember three-digit code.

The ABC News report said a suicide number already exists, but it is the more difficult-to-remember digit code 1-800—273-8255 (TALK). The report said proponents have been suggesting a simpler number for years like 911, to make it easier for people facing a mental health crisis.

A report on Twilio Blog said 911 will remain a basic emergency number as it has in the past.

The FCC's five commissioners unanimously approved the number and its texting component on Nov. 18.

Texting is particularly popular with teenagers. The report said that officials at pediatric mental associations are calling the mental health challenges faced by young people during the pandemic a “national emergency.”  

"We applaud the FCC’s decision to require telecommunication providers to support text messaging to 988," Wesolowski said. "This option will support at-risk communities, including youth and young adults, marginalized and underserved populations, and individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf, blind, or have speech disabilities."

People currently can text a crisis message to (text HELLO to 741741) or type an online message for help at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/.