Understanding the 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline: What happens when you call
Reaching out for help during a mental health crisis can feel overwhelming. Even when you know support is available, you may not know what to expect when you make the call. You might wonder who will answer, what questions they will ask or whether your situation is “serious enough” to contact a crisis service.
Canada’s 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline was created to make getting support easier. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, 9-8-8 provides free crisis support by phone and text to people across Canada. The service is available in English and French and is delivered by trained crisis responders.
What is 9-8-8?
9-8-8 is a national crisis service for people experiencing thoughts of suicide, emotional distress or a difficult moment when they need immediate support. You can also contact 9-8-8 if you are worried about someone you care about.
The service is designed to be accessible. You do not need an appointment, referral or diagnosis to reach out. You can call or text, depending on what feels most comfortable for you.
What happens when you call 9-8-8?
When you call, you will be connected with a trained crisis responder. They will listen to what is happening and help you talk through the situation.
The responder may ask questions about how you are feeling and whether you are currently safe. These questions are not intended to judge you or make assumptions about what you are experiencing. They help the responder understand your situation and determine what kind of support would be most helpful.
You do not need to have the right words prepared before you call. You can simply explain what has been happening in whatever way feels natural. If you are nervous or don't know where to begin, you can say that too.
From there, the responder can help you explore ways of coping with what you are experiencing and identify sources of support. Depending on the situation, they may also help you develop a safety plan or connect you with additional services.
What if I'm calling about someone else?
You don't have to be experiencing a crisis yourself to contact 9-8-8. If you're concerned about a friend, family member, partner, colleague or someone else in your life, you can reach out for guidance.
Talking about suicide or serious emotional distress with someone you care about can be difficult, particularly if you've never had that conversation before. A 9-8-8 responder can help you think through how to approach the conversation and how to support the person while also taking care of yourself.
Is 9-8-8 only for emergencies?
You don't have to wait until you feel like you have reached your absolute breaking point before asking for help. 9-8-8 is there for people experiencing suicide-related concerns and emotional distress, and responders can help you determine what support is appropriate.
If you're unsure whether calling is the right thing to do, you can still reach out. You don't have to figure everything out before asking for support.
However, if you or someone else is in immediate danger or requires urgent medical assistance, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Reaching out is a sign of strength
One of the biggest barriers to getting help is often the fear of being a burden or not knowing what will happen next. Knowing what to expect can make that first step a little easier.
You don't have to navigate an overwhelming moment alone. Whether you call 9-8-8 yourself or reach out because you're worried about someone else, trained responders are available to listen without judgment and help you identify the next step.
At Just Us, we believe that asking for support should never be something you feel ashamed of. Counselling can provide a safe, supportive space to explore difficult experiences, strengthen coping strategies and work toward better mental health.
If you or someone you know needs immediate crisis support, call or text 9-8-8. Support is available across Canada, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.