Content warning: This post includes discussion of suicide.
Mental health is a prevalent issue for all ages, but especially among Gen Z — and some are hoping that will change with the new 988 hotline. In 2021, the Journal of Adolescent Health published a study that found out of 2,809 young adults aged 18-24, 48% reported experiencing poor mental health symptoms, such as anxiety or depression. The COVID-19 pandemic only exacerbated the growing mental health concern with global anxiety and depression increasing by 25% during the pandemic. Now more than ever, efforts are needed to combat the increasing numbers of mental health issues, which includes the new number for the suicide prevention hotline, 988, which will launch on July 16.
What is the 988 hotline?
The 988 code was first proposed in 2020 by Congress with the intent of creating a resource that will save more lives and is easy to remember. They hoped this new number would strengthen the already existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) that helps thousands of lives every day. The suicide prevention hotline has received over 20 million calls since 2005, showing that the need for support and urgent care during mental health emergencies is a necessity. In fact, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide is the 12th leading cause of death. Suicide prevention isn’t just another element of healthcare, but rather an essential aspect of combating mental health emergencies.
The new three-digit number will replace the standing ten-digit number, providing faster care and acting as a version of 911, the go-to resource for emergencies, for mental health crises. The reality is that in a mental health crisis, help can’t wait, and switching from a simpler and quicker number can make sure it doesn’t have to.
How will it work?
Upon dialing or texting the number, you will be connected with trained professionals that have been a part of the current National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network that will listen, navigate how your mental health problems are affecting you, and connect you with any needed resources. This number is a step in the right direction for fast-acting suicide prevention and accessibility for other mental health emergencies.
What are the logistical barriers to its success?
Though this new number is becoming mandatory in all the states, there still needs to be funding allocated to hire qualified professionals and implement resources. There has been a fight to get adequate funding for mental health resources for years, which has raised concerns about the financial needs of this new number. According to the World Health Organization, the government only spends about 2% of their budget on mental health. Therefore, underfunding for mental health was an issue before the rollout of this number, and will probably remain so after its launch. In a recent Rand Corporation report, public health agencies at state and local levels said that they feel unprepared to meet the need of the 988 number due to the lack of funding for staff and organizational needs.
State legislation has made strides toward gaining visibility for this new number, however. Some states have enacted legislation that adds a fee to cell phone lines to pay for the lifeline, accelerating the rollout of 988 in every state. However, in August of 2021, most states had not passed the 988 cell phone fees, which the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration outlines as the primary vehicle to build capacity for this new number.
Despite the need for funding and legislation before the number rolls out next month, 988 is a game-changer for mental health resources among Gen Z. It will aim to provide quick, accessible emergency help in times of need and will hopefully curb the growing number of mental health concerns among young adults and all of the population.
If you or someone you know is seeking help for mental health concerns, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) website, or call 1-800-950-NAMI(6264). For confidential treatment referrals, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website, or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP(4357). The new hotline does not go into effect until mid-July. In an emergency before July 16, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK(8255) or call 911.