The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted the ruling to establish “988” as the new, nationwide, three-digit phone number for the National Suicide Prevention hotline. This adoption will route phone calls to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Center in each state, transitioning from the current Lifeline number, (800) 273-8255.
As a result, phone carriers are required to update phone dialing plans to support 10-digit dialing (222) 333 4444 to ensure the new “988” hotline is reachable. This means that you will have to dial the area code on all outgoing phone calls.
Please note that starting on July 16th, 2022, “988” will become operational nationwide and available on all phone carriers. By calling or texting “988”, you will be connected to a trained specialist, that will engage and address the person's unique concerns and needs.
For more information, please visit Missouri’s Department of Mental Health website.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline