The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is adding a new number. Here’s what to know
This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, there is hope and resources available to get you the support you need.
One of the nation’s largest mental health resources is undergoing a major transition that’s intended to make it easier for folks in crisis to get the lifesaving help they need.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s network of more than 180 crisis centers will soon all be reachable by dialing the same three-digit phone number, two years after the federal government approved the plan in an attempt to improve access to crisis care.
Here’s what to know about the new suicide prevention lifeline number and other ways to connect with mental health resources in Charlotte:
What’s the number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline?
By July 16, anyone is the U.S. will be able to dial 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the lifeline and the Federal Communications Commission announced previously. “All phone service providers” will be required to opt-in to the program by that date.
The service is meant to resemble 911 or 311 numbers that many municipalities use to easily connect residents with non-emergency services.
“I simply want the folks to know that the reason the FCC is doing this now is because we want the millions of Americans who have been struggling, who think there’s a stigma associated with getting help, we want them to know that they are not alone, that 988 could be the lifeline,” then-FCC Chairman Ajit Pai told TODAY in 2020.
As of March, “some areas may be currently able to connect to the Lifeline by dialing 988,” the lifeline says.
The current number for the lifeline, 1-800-273-8255, is still active and available to anyone in the U.S. It will remain active “even after 988 is launched nationally,” according to the organization.
Can you text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline?
The FCC voted in November to include a text option for the new 988 line, ABC News reported. The new text service is expected to launch in July.
The lifeline already has an online chat option, which can be accessed at suicidepreventionlifeline.org. And people who are deaf or hard of hearing can use a relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255 to reach the lifeline.
Other mental health resources in Charlotte
In addition to the national program, there are a number of other resources available in the Charlotte area to folks who need support, including:
National Alliance on Mental Illness — Charlotte: NAMI’s Charlotte crisis hotline is available at 1-704-566-3410.
Atrium Health: Reach Atrium’s Behavioral Health Help Line at 704-444-2400.
Novant Health: Reach Novant’s Behavioral Health Call Center: 1-800-786-1585.
Social Justice Emotional Response Collective: Founded in 2016 to service and prioritize the emotional needs of queer and trans people of color in Charlotte, SJERC’s hotline is available 24/7 at 704-659-4997.
Observer reporter Devna Bose contributed to this story.
