A Lifeline in Every Pocket: Canada’s 988 Helpline Marks One Year
One year ago, Canada launched a vital lifeline: the 988 helpline, a national resource offering 24/7 support for individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts or other mental health concerns. Since its inception, responders have answered more than 300,000 calls and texts, demonstrating the urgent need for accessible mental health services across the country.
“People can get help no matter where they live in Canada,” says Dr. Allison Crawford, the helpline’s chief medical officer. “We want to make sure people know this support is available.”
Dr. Crawford emphasizes the importance of rapid response times. “It’s critical that we respond quickly so people don’t give up,” she says.
In October, the average wait time for phone calls was a mere 44 seconds, while text message responses averaged one minute and 47 seconds.
“We continually work to improve these response times,” Dr. Crawford adds.
Calls and texts are intelligently routed to the nearest available responder, ensuring individuals receive support from someone familiar with their local community and resources.
The Center for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) operates the helpline in collaboration with more than 2,000 responders from 38 community organizations nationwide. This widespread network allows for personalized care tailored to local needs.
Slinder Bhatti, executive director of Chimo Community Services in Richmond, British Columbia, oversees a team of seven to 12 responders on the helpline, adjusting staffing levels based on call and text volume patterns.
“The need for help tends to increase at certain times,” Bhatti observes, noting a heightened demand during the holiday season. “The 988 line is intended for anyone in difficulty,” she clarifies. “Some people call or text several times, and we will not refuse anyone.”
The 988 helpline launched on November 30, 2023, bolstered by $177 million in funding from the Public Health Agency of Canada to cover the first three years of operation.
* What strategies are being used to increase public awareness of the 988 helpline so that more people know it is available as a resource?
## A Lifeline in Every Pocket: Reflecting on Canada’s 988 Helpline
**(Interviewer)** Welcome back to the show. Today marks a significant anniversary for mental health support in Canada. One year ago, the 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline was launched, offering a crucial lifeline for those in distress. We’re joined today by [Guest Name and Credentials], who can shed light on the impact of this vital resource.
**[Guest Name]** Thank you for having me. It’s been a truly meaningful year for the 988 helpline.
**(Interviewer)** Absolutely. Can you tell us a little bit about the helpline’s purpose and how it’s been operating over the past year?
**[Guest Name]** The 988 helpline is a national, toll-free service available 24/7 for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, or mental health crisis. Funded by the Government of Canada [[1](https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/news/2023/11/9-8-8-suicide-crisis-helpline.html)], it’s led by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and provides immediate, confidential support to Canadians in need.
**(Interviewer)** That’s powerful. What kind of impact have you seen in the first year of operation?
**[Guest Name]** The response has been truly remarkable. While we don’t have specific numbers available publicly yet, we know the helpline has been contacted by thousands of Canadians in crisis. Every connection made represents a potential life saved, and a step towards better mental health for individuals and communities across the country.
**(Interviewer)** That’s incredibly encouraging to hear. What are some of the key factors that have contributed to the helpline’s success?
**[Guest Name]** There are several factors. Firstly, the simplicity and memorability of the 988 number make it easy to access in a moment of crisis. Secondly, the 24/7 availability ensures that help is always within reach, regardless of the time of day or night.
the trained crisis responders provide compassionate and non-judgmental support, creating a safe space for individuals to reach out.
**(Interviewer)** Looking ahead, what are the hopes and goals for the 988 helpline moving forward?
**[Guest Name]** Our hope is that the 988 helpline will continue to be a beacon of hope for Canadians struggling with mental health challenges. We strive to increase awareness of the helpline so that more people know it’s there when they need it most. Ultimately, we aim to contribute to a society where mental health is prioritized and everyone has access to the support they deserve.
**(Interviewer)** Thank you so much for your time and insights today, [Guest Name]. This is truly important work, and we appreciate your commitment to making a difference in the lives of Canadians.
