Confession: I never memorized the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255).

Like many well-meaning people I would simply post or re-post whenever it ‘trended’ on social media, usually when it was too late for someone who might have been helped, and spared their loved ones immense pain and grief.

The new 3-digit number should make it easier to remember in times of crises. Ideally, we will be as familiar with 988 (and perhaps even more comfortable using it) as we are with 911.

For more information: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988