Fourteen IP Helps Promote Canada’s 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline
Since November 30th 2023 people across Canada have access to a new and important source of support: 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline is now available nationwide in English and French, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Approximately 12 people die by suicide per day across Canada. Led and coordinated by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) and funded by the Government of Canada, this simple three-digit number makes it easier for people to call or text to get the help they need, when they need it most. The service offers trauma-informed and culturally affirming support to anyone who is thinking of suicide, or who is worried about someone they know.
What is 9-8-8?
The 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline is a new three-digit helpline that provides urgent, live support by phone and text to people in every province and territory across Canada.
9-8-8 is available in English and French, 24 hours a day, every single day of the year across the country.
9-8-8 is for anyone thinking about suicide, or worried someone they know. Trained 9-8-8 responders will answer calls and texts and listen without judgement while providing support.
What happens when people call 9-8-8
When you call 9-8-8, before you are connected to a 9-8-8 responder, you will hear a brief pre-recorded message to let you know you are in the right place.
Most callers at this point will also hear a few short questions, such as whether you’d like to talk to someone in English or French, if you are under 18, and if you would like to speak to a responder that has experience of supporting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people. The message will also let you know how you can find out more about using the service, including about confidentiality.
In some parts of Canada, you will be put straight through to the existing crisis service for your province or territory and will hear a welcome message from that service.
All callers will be put through to a responder who will listen and provide support. If you need to wait for a short time, please stay on the line – your call will be answered.
Whatever people are facing, 9-8-8 responders are there to help. No one who reaches out to 9-8-8 will be turned away.
Where can you find out more information?
You can find out more at the 9-8-8 website
