Idaho Three-Digit Hotline Now Live For People Considering Suicide

Idaho health officials have recently improved on a 24-hour hotline that has assisted state residents who need immediate assistance when it comes to matters of personnel health and well-being.

A new statewide emergency line has been created to assist people who are struggling with thoughts of harming themselves. The improved 2-1-1 distress line resulted from a partnership between the Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline and the Idaho Careline, according to details shared by ktvb.com. The careline, which was created by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, has now added a new, single number extension to directly route calls of a suicidal nature.

The new three-digit line will give people dealing with an immediate crisis an easier telephone number to remember, as well as being a quicker link to emergency assistance. Those in need of the service will just have to press 3 when prompted by a message to speak directly to someone. Those answering phones for the hotline recently underwent new training on effectively dealing with individuals experiencing psychological distress.

Complete anonymity and confidentiality is guaranteed for the callers, who will be put in direct contact with a crisis member. The Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline, at 208-398-4357, has been in service for years in the state as a way to encourage people who need help to reach out.

The careline also has trained people standing by to help Idahoans dealing with a lack of shelter, medical assistance and energy needs. If you are someone who is currently dealing with an urgent matter such as having thoughts of harming yourself, the service is now available, so please reach out.