Calling 9-1-1 allows people to get help in an emergency.

A new three-digit number will enable them to get the help they need in a mental health crisis.

Starting today, dialing 988 will connect callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which is available to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis.

“It’s not just for someone who’s suicidal. It’s for anyone who’s having some emotional distress and needs someone to talk to,” said Angela Romano-Lucky, director of crisis services for New Perspectives in Monroe County.

The suicide prevention lifeline connects to a national network of counselors that are available 24/7 and are trained to listen, provide support and connect callers to available resources. Calls can be completely anonymous.

It has been available since 2005, fielding over 20 million calls during that time.

Previously, callers had to dial a 10-digit 1-800 number. Now, it joins other three-digit special dialing codes, such as 511 (traffic), 811 (underground utility safety), and 611 (phone services for the deaf and hard of hearing).

“It’s a lot easier to remember 988. Especially if someone is compromised, they’re struggling, they’re having difficulty focusing and concentrating,” Romano-Lucky said.

The switch to a three-digit number is expected to increase the number of calls the service receives. The Federal government committed nearly $300 million last year to expanding the program, adding text messaging and Spanish-language services, and increasing staff at call centers.

When someone calls the lifeline, they are usually directed to a local crisis center. If no one is available, they’re directed to one of three call centers operated by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.

Immediate in-person assistance is available if needed, but many people have their concerns addressed on the phone.

Carbon, Schuylkill and Monroe have crisis services available 24/7, but not all counties are as well-prepared.

The agencies who provide those services look at the lifeline as a useful tool for residents to reach them.

Schuylkill County had 27 suicides in 2021, the first increase in several years, according to Grace Coffin of Schuylkill County Mental Health and Development Services. But it also had more than 600 calls to the lifeline, which suggests that many people are getting connected to the mental health assistance they need.

“People are asking for help, which is obviously incredibly important. It gives us hope,” Coffin said.