The new three-digit number is easy to remember and instantly connects callers with operators who can help with crisis counseling and other important services.
The hotline is billed as an alternative to calling 911 for people experiencing mental health emergencies.
"The hope is that ultimately one day 988 is as ubiquitous as 911 so that people know in a mental health crisis if somebody needs to speak with somebody, they can call that number from anywhere in the country and reach someone 24 hours a day," Shari Sinwelski, Vice President of crisis care for Didi Hirsch mental health services.
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