25 million Americans suffer from depression each year. 60% of all people who die by suicide suffer from major depression. Depression affects 5-8% of Americans ages 18 and over. 260 people committed suicide in Broward County last year. Finally, the Federal Communications Commission unanimously voted to approve the rulemaking process for the new 988 number to reach the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. 988 will ease access to crisis services which will ultimately save lives. The proposal requires carriers to implement 988 as a national suicide prevention hotline within an 18-month timeframe. 988 must be implemented immediately and lawmakers cannot drag their feet.
