Special Issue: Canada Launches 988 Hotline for Mental Health Crisis
Services also available in Cree, Ojibway (Anishinaabemowin), and Inuktitut
This news warranted a special issue of my newsletter. Please share widely among friends, family, and on social media.
Canada has joined the United States in instituting 988 as a Suicide Prevention Hotline. It went into service today at 9 a.m. EST. If you are American, this is important for you too. If you visit Canada or have friends in the country, you know that urgent mental health resources are available by phone or text by dialing 988.
The service is available 24/7 in both English and French, with special options for Indigenous people, as well as children and teens. It covers all provinces and territories.
According to this CBC article:
“In addition to calling 988, First Nations, Inuit and Métis will also be able to reach the Hope for Wellness Helpline. Its responders were specifically trained in cultural humility and are available by calling 1-855-242-331. Services in Cree, Ojibway (Anishinaabemowin) and Inuktitut are provided upon request.”
Please. If you are in crisis, if you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide – use this number. Someone will stay on the line with you for as long as you need it. Get the help you deserve.