The 3-digit suicide and crisis lifeline – 988 – fielded nearly half a million more calls, texts and chats in its first 5 months than the old 10-digit Lifeline did during the same time in 2021.

The mid-July launch of a new three-digit national suicide prevention phone line has driven an increase in call volume in Georgia, with a disproportionate number of callers dialing in from rural counties.

Tuesday on Political Rewind: In their last session, Georgia legislators passed a bipartisan bill to improve access to mental health services. This past week saw further progress with the launch of the 988 phone line, an emergency mental health crisis line, part of a new national network.

Monday on Political Rewind: The Fulton County election probe issued letters to state Sen. Burt Jones and Georgia GOP chair David Shafer informing them that they could face criminal charges. House Speaker David Ralston was called to testify last week as Sen. Lindsey Graham looks to avoid the stand. 

Mental health advocates hope the new hotline will make it much easier to get support if you're in crisis or helping someone who is. Here's how it works and what could stand in its way.

With the new three-digit number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline set to launch in days, several states have been beset by staffing crunches, dropped or rerouted calls and lack of planning.