LOOK: Dak Prescott makes passionate plea regarding change for National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Dallas Cowboys star Dak Prescott shared vital information regarding a recent major change to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Prescott shared that the hotline will be using a three-digit number — 988 — for easier memorization for people in need.
Prescott’s brother, Jace Prescott, tragically lost his life to suicide at 31 years old in 2020. Prescott shared his brother’s passing himself in an interview, highlighting the importance of helping people who are struggling and how tough it can be without help.
“Because our adversities, our struggles, what we go through is always gonna be too much for ourselves and maybe too much for even one or two people,” said Prescott of his brother’s passing. “But never too much for a community or too much for people in the family that you love. So you have to share these things.”
Dak Prescott on National Suicide Prevention Lifeline update
The change will go into effect nationwide on July 16, allowing people to connect to the Lifeline by simply dialing 988. Anyone in need can call, text or chat with the 988 number and will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network. “Counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary,” reads the official website’s statement.
“The current Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will always remain available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis, even after 988 is launched nationally.”
Alongside the shared images, Prescott shared the Lifeline’s request for funding assistance — as the Lifeline network constantly faces funding issues combined with a steadily increasing volume of calls. With additional funding, as Prescott explains, the Lifeline can continue to make sure there is always someone available to answer the phone when someone is in need.
“We need your help to secure funding,” shared Prescott. “Your support will ensure there’s someone to answer the call, someone to come help, and some place to go for care.”