Galesburg Reporter

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s new number allows people to call or text a trained mental health professional that’s been active since July.

“The 988 Mental Health Crisis Line isn’t just for people having a crisis themselves, but also for those worried about a loved one,” Senator Jil Tracy said.

USA Today reported if the professional feels like the caller is in danger, local authorities may be contacted.

In her Facebook post, Tracy shared a link to a Youtube video where Senator Dan McConchie spoke about the 988 hotline, and how suicide has touched his own life.

“We have all been impacted by suicide or a mental health crisis at one time or another, when it comes to family, coworkers, or even ourselves. In Illinois there are more than 1,000 suicide deaths each year. I have a personal connection to suicide myself, in fact. I have, sadly, had three close friends take their own lives. It's not easy to think about, but these situations exist all around us and I'm thankful that we have a service like 988 to help those people who need the help of others the most. Similar to 911, 988 is a 3-digit number that can be dialed from anywhere in Illinois for people who are feeling suicidal or are struggling with a mental health crisis.”

USA Today also reported mental health activists are worried about the lack of services outside of law enforcement and the impact on communities of color.

“I have so much respect for the people that are working to create a system for support, and I do think that 988 is a really great opportunity to expand the resources available to people in need,” Trans Lifeline Director of Advocacy Yana Calou said to USA Today. “If 988 would route to … alternative, community-based supports like ours, that would really go a long way to making sure that people get to speak with the person that they need.”

To learn more about the updated suicide crisis line, visit the Illinois Department of Human Services webpage.

The 10-digit number remains in operation. That number is 1-800-273-8255.

According to WAND, since the mid-July launch of 988. Memorial Behavioral Health has answered 96% of the calls that have come through. Memorial Behavioral Health is one of six hubs taking 988 calls in the state.