9-8-8 to be new emergency line for people in mental health crises

A new three-digit emergency hotline will soon be available for people struggling with mental health issues.

The new code is designed to be a quick, easy-to-remember number for people in a mental health crisis.

9-8-8, or Lifeline, will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. 

When someone calls, texts, or chats 9-8-8, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing Lifeline network.

People in some areas may be able to connect to the Lifeline now, but 9-8-8 is set to be available to everyone in Missouri and across the United States starting on July 16th.