The three-digit number routes to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, which connects callers to mental health services in the area where they are calling. Veterans and active duty military members who call can press 1 for the Veteran Crisis Line, or they can stay on the line and talk to a civilian. Callers also have the option to receive help in Spanish.

While the National Suicide Prevention Hotline has been in existence for years, the new number began operation on July 16, 2022, in the hopes of making it easier for people to remember the number they can call if they or someone with them is in a mental health crisis.

Some concern exists that the service will not be able to keep up with the likely rise in demand, depending on how well states have anticipated any increase. If a caller has any trouble accessing assistance, they can also call 911 or go directly to a hospital emergency room for crisis care.