FCC Establishes 9-8-8 As New Mental Health Crisis Number
The Federal Communications Commission adopted rules to establish 988 as the new, nationwide, 3-digit phone number for Americans in crisis to connect with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors.
"This easy-to-remember number will help hundreds of thousands of individuals across America who are depressed and contemplating suicide," said Betsy E. Huber, National Grange president. "This action is particularly important for rural communities especially vulnerable because of vast shortages of mental health professionals. We have seen the success of 911 and know that 988 will have a similar legacy."