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Jun 01, 2026
Canada has a crisis line devoted to helping people who are thinking about suicide or are worried about someone they know who is struggling.
You can call or text 9-8-8 any time of day or night, in any part of the country, and be connected right away to a trained responder who will listen and provide support.
The three-digit crisis line has been available since November 2023, and it’s helping people get through overwhelming moments and provide support to family and friends. Help is available in English and French.
Suicide is a big concern in Canada, but stigma and silence still surround it. Twelve Canadians die by suicide every day. Men are three times as likely as women to die by suicide. However, women attempt suicide 1.5 to two times more often than men do. Suicide rates are also concerning in First Nation communities and among 2SLGBTQIA+ people.
It’s an issue that touches everyone in society, and that’s why we should be talking about it more.
Start the conversation
Talking about suicide doesn’t cause it. In fact, having a caring conversation with someone who is thinking about suicide actually reduces the risk that they will attempt suicide. Talking can help remove the burden from the person in crisis. It gives them a chance to share what they’re experiencing and lessens the likelihood that they will harm themselves.
However, it can feel scary to start the conversation, whether you want to tell someone that you’re struggling or you’d like to ask someone if they are OK.
The 9-8-8 crisis line is there to support you in those moments and 9-8-8 operators can help you find the words.
What to expect
When you call or text 9-8-8, you’ll receive a brief message to confirm you’ve reached the right place. Next, you’ll be asked a few short questions, such as if you’d like to speak with someone in English or French. You’ll then be connected with a trained responder who will listen and provide support.
Most calls and texts are answered in seconds. The responder you connect with will listen with compassion and without judgment, and will give you space to talk. Whatever you’re going through, they want to understand and will support you when things feel overwhelming.
Advice you can trust
You may use AI chatbots for other aspects of your life, but avoid using them for crisis support. Chatbots are not equipped to give advice for mental health or medical concerns, especially in a crisis, and there’s a good chance they will steer you down the wrong path, sharing advice and information that is dangerous or even deadly.
Calling 9-8-8 to speak with a trained responder can get you the support you need right away. Help is available and you don’t have to face this alone.
Other crisis lines available to Nova Scotians include the Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line (call toll-free at 1-888-429-8167 or dial 911). Children and youth can call the Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868, text 686868 or receive live chat counselling on its website. Indigenous Nova Scotians can call the Hope for Wellness help line at 1-855-242-3310 or connect to the online chat on its website.
Suicide prevention resources
