People anywhere in Canada can call and text 9-8-8 if they are thinking about suicide or are worried about someone who is.
The three-digit suicide prevention helpline will be answered by responders who are as close to home as possible.
Every day in Canada, an average of 12 people die by suicide.[1] Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 15-34.[2] Research shows that suicides are preventable, and that telephone crisis services, and online counselling can help save lives.[3]
9-8-8 provides:
- A number that is easy-to-remember in a crisis.
- Bilingual support, available 24/7/365 by phone and text.
- Quick access to support from trained responders.
- High quality, evidence-based, equitable suicide prevention and crisis support for everyone in Canada.
To learn more about 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline, visit 988.ca/about.
[1] https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/suicide-prevention/suicide-canada.html
[2] Opioid- and Stimulant-related Harms — Canada.ca
[3] Mental Health Commission of Canada. (2018). Research on suicide and its prevention: What the current evidence reveals and topics for future research. Ottawa, ON.