There are already a number of three digit hotlines that people can call in case of emergency, but Senator Ron Wyden thinks that maybe one more three-digit hotline could be created, and this hotline will be aimed at those who are at risk of suicide. This was revealed in Wyden’s letter to the FCC (via TechCrunch) where he urged the commission to create one.According to Wyden, “I write on behalf of those struggling with mental health issues, our veterans struggling with PTSD and for those impacted by the tragedy of suicide. I urge you to designate a 3-digit code as a Behavioral Health and Suicide Crisis Lifeline. Thank you for your consideration.” His letter also cites the CDC’s report of how more than 40,000 Americans have died by suicide in 2017.
That being said, there are already numbers out there for people in need to call if they are feeling suicidal. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has one as part of an 800 number, but some believe that this number might be too long to be remembered, versus three-digit numbers like 911 which are easier to commit to memory.
Wyden isn’t alone in his request as it has also been proposed Senator Orrin Hatch and Representative Chris Stewart that this number could be 611. “We believe 611 is a simple, easy-to-remember number and is the best option for the three-digit dialing code for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This undertaking is of utmost national importance. This simple change can connect millions of Americans with life-saving resources, including veterans that find themselves in crisis.”