Right before the holidays, T-Mobile announced direct support for 988, a dialing input that offers free mental health services to users of any age, identity, and background.
According to 9to5mac, T-Mobile announced the following in a press conference concerning the decision:
“T-Mobile knows how much our customers depend on us for reliable connectivity and when someone needs access to mental health support, seconds truly matter. Giving our customers a quick connection via 988 to trained mental health care professionals was a priority for us because it could save lives,” said T-Mobile’s Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer Abdul Saad. “Making 988 available to our customers was a matter of urgency for us, particularly as the COVID-19 pandemic continues and the holiday season approaches. And it’s particularly meaningful to launch this during November as we recognize the contributions and acknowledge the sacrifices of our military veterans. I’m proud that T-Mobile is doing our part to help get this lifesaving tool in the hands of those who will benefit from it…
Starting today, customers who dial 988 on the T-Mobile network will have free access to approximately 180 crisis centers that offer real-time, lifesaving mental health services from professionally trained counselors…
As mental health issues rise and suicide rates climb, this critical service couldn’t come quick enough. According to the most recent annual data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 15.4 million American adults seriously thought about, made a plan for, or attempted suicide, and suicide claims the lives of over 48,000 annually—one death every 11 minutes. Veterans are hit particularly hard; on average, 17.6 veterans take their own lives every day. And this year the U.S. enters the holiday season with the added stress of the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, recent research found that one third of Americans – more than ever before – are showing signs of clinical anxiety or depression as a result of COVID-19.”
In accordance to the FFC, as of July 2022, all mobile providers will be required to host a variant of health services within the mental health field. Being over a year ahead of the curve, many individuals with this coverage may get the help they need sooner, rather than later.
Would you use free mental health services if provided by your cell carrier? Let us know in the comments!
