Update, Nov 19 (3 p.m. ET): FCC approves text-to-988, sets deadline
What you need to know
- The FCC plans to make the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline service accessible through text messaging.
- Text providers must enable automatic rerouting of text messages sent to 988 to the Lifeline.
- The goal is to make it easier to access the network for those who want "a certain level of anonymity."
The Federal Communications Commission is considering implementing a new method for people in crisis to seek help from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by sending a text message in addition to calling the network.
Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has proposed an order that would allow anyone seeking to connect with mental health professionals to simply send a text message to 988. The message should be automatically routed to Lifeline's full number (1-800-273-8255).
Rosenworcel noted that texting has become the "primary mode of communication" for many young people and at-risk communities such as the LGBTQ+. "And as such, we should meet them where they are — so they can connect to mental health resources no matter how they communicate during a crisis," she said.
The proposed order will also make it easier for people with hearing impairments or simply want to remain anonymous to contact Lifeline personnel using a mobile device, including many of the best Android phones and iOS devices. The network provides free support to people who are "in suicidal crisis or emotional distress." On November 18, the commission will vote on the proposal.
Text providers would have to support the new order by July 16, 2022, for every messaging format that's compatible with the Lifeline. The FCC is also considering adopting the same method for the Veterans Crisis Line.
The Lifeline can already be accessed through web-based online chats, and the proposed text-to-988 method should expand access to the network.
Update, Nov 19 (3 p.m. ET) ― Deadline for 988 support set for July 16, 2022
On Thursday, the FCC voted unanimously to support text-to-988 access to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This would give Americans another avenue to seek help in a way that's potentially more comfortable and anonymous for young people.
The deadline to support text-to-988 is set for July 16, 2022, the same time that 988 will go live as the three-digit number for Lifeline access.
Today we unanimously voted on a measure to create text-to-988 by the same effective date – July 16, 2022. We want to make sure every American who needs mental health counseling can reach that help as easily as possible. #MentalHealthMatters https://t.co/oKRptjBgUXToday we unanimously voted on a measure to create text-to-988 by the same effective date – July 16, 2022. We want to make sure every American who needs mental health counseling can reach that help as easily as possible. #MentalHealthMatters https://t.co/oKRptjBgUX— Jessica Rosenworcel (@JRosenworcelFCC) November 18, 2021November 18, 2021
