Canadians will soon have an easy-to-remember number to access mental health support.
Federal officials announced Monday that the 988 mental health crisis hotline will launch on Nov. 30.
Mental Health and Addictions Minister Carolyn Bennett says about 12 people die by suicide in Canada each day.
“It continues to be the second leading cause of death among young people in this country and the ninth leading cause of death among all Canadians,” Bennet said Monday.
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) was previously selected to launch and operate the hotline.
On Monday, Bennett announced that the centre would receive $156 million in federal funding over three years.
“The 988 service in Canada will build on the current Talk Suicide Canada network, where existing crises and distress services from across the country will form the responder network,” she said.
Trained crisis responders will use best practices, procedures and protocols to offer trauma-informed and culturally appropriate crisis services to those in need.
Individuals in need will be able to call or text 988 in order to access suicide prevention and crisis support.
Sarah Downey, president and CEO of CAMH, said they are honoured to be leading and coordinating the rollout of the national hotline.
“This three-digit service will provide life-saving support to people who are facing their most challenging moments,” said Downey.
“We’re proud to be working closely with partners across the country to bring this important service to everyone in Canada”
In order for 988 to function across Canada, 10-digit dialing had to be introduced in areas where seven-digit dialing was still the norm, including Newfoundland and Labrador, northern Ontario and the Yellowknife area.
The CRTC is required service providers to complete the transition to 10-digit local dialing in those areas by May 31, giving them six months to make the necessary changes to their networks to support the 988 hotline.
In the meantime, Talk Suicide Canada offers support 24/7 by calling 1-833-456-4566. You can also text 45645 between 4 p.m. and midnight Eastern Time.
Kids Help Phone is also available by calling 1-800-668-6868 or texting 686868.
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