Increased calls to 988 hotline associated with a drop in suicides among young people, study finds
A new study found an 11% drop in suicide deaths among adolescents and young adults after the launch of the 988 hotline in the US. The states with the biggest increases in answered calls saw the largest decline in suicide rates.
The US launch of the 988 hotline was followed by an 11% drop in suicide deaths among adolescents and young adults compared to projected rates. Suicide rates have been increasing in the US, especially among young people, but overall suicide deaths dropped slightly in 2024. Researchers analyzed data from a national registry of death certificates, focusing on people ages 15 to 34. The analysis found that states with the biggest increases in answered calls saw the largest decline in suicide rates. The study's findings are consistent with previous research linking increased call volume to fewer suicides. The long-term funding of the 988 lifeline remains uncertain, with advocates pushing to restore the 'press three' option for LGBTQ+ young people.
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