988 Will Now Route Calls by Location, Not Zip Code

Major cell phone carriers are implementing a new technology called "georouting," directing 988 suicide and crisis hotline callers to help centers based on their physical location rather than their phone number's area code. This change aims to connect individuals in mental health or substance use crises with localized resources, ultimately improving care and saving lives.

 

The 988 lifeline, launched in July 2022, has already received over 10 million calls, texts, and chats. As the suicide rate continues to rise, this initiative enhances access to immediate, compassionate support and reinforces the importance of community-based resources in crisis situations. Read more from CNN here.