Canada-wide 988 suicide prevention helpline launched to aid people in distress
Similar to 911, the three-digit helpline is designed to connect people quickly with counsellors
In November 2021, youth in Iqaluit protested calling for more mental health resources to be dedicated toward suicide prevention. (Photo by Mélanie Ritchot)
A three-digit suicide prevention helpline is now available Canada-wide to assist people in distress.
The 988 helpline was launched Thursday to quickly connect people who are experiencing thoughts of suicide or are in mental distress with responders from their territory or province who “will provide support and compassion without judgment,” according to a federal government news release.
Similar to the 911 system for accessing medical, fire and police emergency services, the 988 helpline is available toll-free through call or text, 24 hours a day and seven days a week for people across Canada.
Approximately 12 people in Canada die by suicide each day, or close to 4,500 people every year, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada.
The helpline’s goal is to provide easily accessed support by quickly connecting callers with responders trained in suicide prevention.
Through 988, a network of partners across the country will offer support in English or French. Also, through a 988 menu option Inuit, First Nations and Métis can reach the Hope for Wellness Helpline or by calling 1-855-242-3310.
The Hope for Wellness Helpline offers support in Inuktitut, Cree and Ojibway.
For the 988 startup, the federal government provided $156 million over three years to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.
“Even just one conversation can help someone reconnect with their strengths and forge new ways of coping,” said Dr. Allison Crawford, a psychiatrist and chief medical officer for the 988 helpline, in the release.
“If you are feeling hopeless, our message to you is: You are not alone.”
There’s a huge difference between 911 and the new number, 988…if there’s an emergency, we got 911, but what comes to my mind is, would the person who is in distress, thinking of ending his/her life really think to call that number when they are not even talking face to face? its a good idea to try, but even millions of dollars will not really help as the distressed person will have the least thought of calling. thats just my opinion so no need to start shooting negativity. thank you.