They provide for a two-year transition, reflecting the nature of this nationwide effort, including the need for network changes and providing time for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline to prepare for the expected increase in the volume of calls. The new rules will apply to all telecommunications carriers as well as all interconnected and one-way Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service providers. Veterans and Service members may reach the Veterans Crisis Line by pressing 1 after dialing, chatting online at or texting 838255. During the transition to 988, Americans who need help should continue to contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-80 (1-800-273-TALK) and through online chats. The rules require phone service providers 1 to direct all 988 calls to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by July 16, 2022. On July 16, 2020, the FCC adopted rules to establish 988 as the new, nationwide, easy-to-remember 3-digit phone number for Americans in crisis to connect with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors. Service members, Veterans, and their families can reach the Veterans Crisis Line by texting 838255, and through online chats at.
988 is not a nationwide texting code right now. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is also available today through online chats.
Veterans should Press 1 to be connected with the Veterans Crisis Line.
988 is not a nationwide calling code right now. Reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Veterans Crisis Line by Phone and TextĬall 1-80 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline today.