Ten-digit dialing is now mandatory for residents of sections of New York and New Jersey that previously allowed seven-digit dialing for local phone calls, this as part of an attempt to provide more resources to people at risk of suicide. .
The Federal Communications Commission is transitioning after lawmakers approved a new three-digit national code, 988, for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. The hotline, currently accessed by calling 800-273-8255, connects callers in distress with local crisis centers. Experts say 988 will expand access to mental health support and prevent future deaths. The code will be fully active in July 2022.
The National Suicide Prevention Hotline currently receives about 4 million calls a year. That number is projected to increase by at least 50 percent the first year the code goes into service, according to Vibrant Emotional Health, the organization that operates the hotline. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that about 2,500 people die by suicide in New York and New Jersey each year before the pandemic.
The 10-digit change, which took effect Sunday, affects area codes 516, 607, 716, 845 and 914 in New York State, and 908 and 856 in New Jersey. An FCC spokesman said it is necessary to prevent calls to seven-digit numbers beginning with 988 from being accidentally routed to the National Suicide Prevention Line in the future.
People needing help will be directed to the nearest local crisis center according to their area code, and if a counselor is not available, the call will be directed to a national support center. The hotline number 1-800-273-8255 will also remain in service once 988 takes effect next summer.
Expanding access to the National Suicide Prevention Line can also divert 911 calls and reduce caller interactions with police officers who may not be trained to handle mental health emergencies. New York City launched a pilot program this summer to that end. But the latest data shows that it is struggling to achieve its mission due in part to a lack of resources.
The New York State Office of Mental Health said it is working on a plan to expand capacity to respond to calls to 988 and is coordinating with local health organizations for additional funding through the federal grant program for community mental health services.
If you or someone you know exhibits suicide warning signs, call the National Suicide Prevention Line at 800-273-8255.
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