New Suicide Hotline and Awareness
By: Cecilia Sarnowski '23
On December 12, a new suicide hotline number was presented by the FCC, the Federal Communications Commission. The new number is simply three digits, 988, rather than the previous 12 digit number. The reason for the suggestion of this new number is simple - the new number is easier to remember in a time of need.
The previous hotline number was a lengthy 12 digits, the same as any other phone number. These digits were put to rest for an obvious reason, the number was too long. Yes, the number could be programmed into a phone but the likelihood of that is very small. Most people using this hotline are not planning to dial this number. The shorter number will allow this service to be more accessible.
With this suggestion of a new hotline number, other points were brought up. Are enough people aware of not only suicide rates, attempt rates, as well as anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses? The answer to that question is no.
In modern society, the 2000s, people are open about their struggles and need for help, but openness wasn’t always a virtue. Depression and anxiety among other things were just pushed under the rug. People were “just sad” or “worried”, because being depressed or anxious was a bad thing, only now, in some cases, a little too late has society realized that feeling this way is not a bad thing. With this newer perspective, we need to create a strong and advocated awareness.
Awareness can be raised in many different ways: statistics, rallies, walks, conferences, etc. These ways are being used now and will continue to be used and grow if support is given.
In Philadelphia, there is a walk for suicide awareness called “ Out of the Darkness Greater Philidelphia Walk”. The statistics of this walk show that by 2025 suicide rates could be potentially reduced by 20% as long as there isn’t a decrease in support.
In conclusion, the FCC has suggested a new number for the suicide hotline, 988. With the suggestion of this number topics relating to this have been brought up. Is there enough awareness of depression, anxiety, suicide, and other mental illnesses? No. However, there are many ways to increase awareness and support.