Canada's 988 Suicide Helpline Marks First Year with Over 300,000 Calls and Texts

The 24/7 crisis line has provided critical mental health support nationwide, with efforts underway to expand access and reduce response times.

The 988 helpline, launched in November 2023, has responded to more than 300,000 calls and texts, averaging 1,000 interactions daily.
The service offers immediate support for individuals in crisis and connects them to local mental health resources as needed.
Operated by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, the helpline collaborates with over 2,000 responders from 39 community agencies across Canada.
Efforts are ongoing to improve response times, which currently average 44 seconds for calls and 1 minute 47 seconds for texts.
Funded with $177 million over three years by the federal government, the helpline aims to increase public awareness and expand its reach.