Changes to suicide prevention hotline number proposed

In case of emergency, dial 911. For suicide prevention, the national hotline number is 1-800-273-8255, but that could change.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is proposing the number become simply 988, in hopes that more people in need will call and get help. To make this change, the FCC must issue a public notice that it’s being considered, wait a certain time period for public comment and then hold a formal vote.

Many support the change, as suicide rates have increased exponentially throughout the years – 47,000 suicides occurred in 2017, with over 1.4 million attempted.

– MaryGrace Williams, 360 Media, Inc.