New Suicide Call-Text Hotline Coming July 16th in WA

The Kennewick Police Department and other law enforcement agencies are alerting the public about a new important service beginning in just over a week.

   New '988' line coming July 16th.

According to the Kennewick Police Department, Washington residents will have a new resource to help them when it comes to dealing with potential suicide.

The KPD released a statement that read in part:

"Washington residents will be able to dial 988 to call, text, or chat with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL) 24-hours a day. Services will be available in Spanish, along with interpretation services in over 250 languages. Just dial 988 if you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress."

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This is an easier, expanded version of the existing 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number, which will still be active once 988 is implemented. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline has helped thousands of people who are in need of help when it comes to this issue.

It's believed making it easier to just dial 988 will greatly encourage people who are suffering to take the step to get help.

Authorities say it isn't just for people who are dealing with this themselves, they also urge citizens to call if they know of someone, or are trying to help someone who is in distress. Again, beginning July 16th, you can dial 988 and either directly talk, text or chat with a trained professional who is ready to help.