Why 988 is a Game-Changer in Suicide Prevention
Suicide is a serious public health problem that affects people of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds. It is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 800,000 people die by suicide each year, which means that one person dies every 40 seconds.
To address this problem, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently approved a new three-digit emergency number – 988 – for suicide prevention and mental health crises. The new number is expected to go into effect nationwide on July 16, 2022. Here’s why this number is a game-changer in suicide prevention:
Immediate Access to Help
The current National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL) number is a 10-digit number that can be difficult to remember in an emergency. The new 988 number is easy to remember, which means that people in crisis can get immediate access to help. The new number will connect callers to trained counselors that can provide immediate assistance and connect them to local mental health services.
Less Stigma About Mental Health
Some people may be hesitant to use the current NSPL number because they are afraid of being stigmatized for seeking help for mental health issues. The new 988 number is specifically for crisis situations related to mental health, which may reduce the stigma surrounding seeking help.
Better Coordination of Resources
The new 988 number will help better coordinate and streamline mental health resources across the country. It will be similar to the 911 system for emergencies and will help ensure that people in crisis receive the right kind of help, no matter where they are located.
Conclusion
The new 988 number for suicide prevention and mental health crises is a game-changer. It will provide immediate access to help, reduce the stigma about mental health, and better coordinate mental health resources across the country. This new three-digit emergency number is an essential step forward in suicide prevention, and it will undoubtedly save countless lives.
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