The new mental health emergency crisis line, 988 is meant to give those facing a mental health crisis someone to call, rather than calling 911.

The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act was signed into law in October of 2020, creating 9-8-8 as the national dialing code. The new line launches tomorrow (on Saturday) July 16th.

Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline Director Lee Flinn tells KIVI-TV, if you call 9-8-8 from a local phone number beginning Saturday, the call will be routed to Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline.

The goal of 988 is to provide support to anyone experiencing a mental health crisis, connect people with the correct resources and trained crisis personnel, according to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.