Starting on October 24th, anyone placing a phone call will be required to use the full ten-digit number every time.
This includes local calls with the same area code you are dialing from. The change was implemented by the Federal Communications Commission, as they have adopted a three-digit number for people to contact the National Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline.
There are currently several short-form numbers people can call. Everyone knows about 911, but there is also 511 for traffic information, and 811 for underground utility information, but this new number, which will be 988, will make it easier for those who need mental health help to receive it in a timely manner.
That number will go into effect on October 24th and requires that all phone calls use the full 10 digit number. This means that you will have to use the area code, and the other seven digits every single time.