New 988 mental health hotline is now active

California residents can now reach the National Suicide Prevention Hotline with just three digits: 988.

The program, under the helm of mental health organizations Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and Didi Hirsh, was launched nationally on July 16.

Generally, those undergoing mental health or substance use crises would call 911 or the national hotline at 1-800-2738255. Now, they can call or text 988 and reach trained counselors who can listen, provide support and share resources.

What this means for Californians

Didi Hirsch, a mental health care and suicide prevention organization, is leading the implementation of 988 in California.

The current suicide rate in the state is 10.6 per 100,000 people, according to the Let's Get Healthy

California initiative.

Under 988, Didi Hirsch is partnering with 13 public and private crisis centers throughout California, according to a news release. These facilities receive more than 270,000 calls to the Suicide Prevention Hotline annually, and the organization stated it anticipates the number will rise with the launch of 988.

It stated that its team of volunteer crisis counselors will increase to 500 to prepare for calls coming to 988.

Why 988?

The number is easier to remember, according to SAMHSA. And rather than calling 911, which is used for public safety, 988 will offer more accessibility to crisis services.

Can you still call the original hotline?

Yes.

According to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline website, the previous hotline — 800-273-8255 — will still be active indefinitely.