Thanks to Logic’s Song, the Phones at “1-800-273-8255” Are Ringing off the Hook

Chicago Tribune

Following the April release of Logic’s hit song about the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, calls to the crisis hotline have increased in record numbers. Titled “1-800-273-8255” after the Lifeline phone number, the song encourages those who are struggling to reach out for help. “We had the second-highest call volume in the history of our service the day of the song’s release,” said Lifeline Director John Draper. “It’s remained high ever since.” Compared to 2016, call volume has risen more than 30 percent and Facebook engagement is three times higher. The number of visitors to the Lifeline website has also increased from 300,000 to 400,000 per month. In August, Logic performed the song at the MTV Video Music Awards and was joined on stage by performers and volunteers who have lived experience of suicide. Volunteers wore T-shirts that displayed the Lifeline’s phone number. “To stand up there, not only with the number on their backs, but the message that you’re not alone—that, we thought, was most important to get out there,” said Draper.

Spark Extra! Learn more about the Lifeline.

Update July 2022: 988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (now known as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), and is now active across the United States. (Please note, the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number will continue to function indefinitely.) Click here to learn more about 988.