On Friday January 16th, the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Federal Minister of Health and Parliamentary Secretary Maggie Chi visited the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) to announce renewed federal support for the 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline. This exciting news reinforces the Government of Canada’s commitment to suicide prevention and mental health care for people across the country.
Speaking at CAMH’s Arrell Family Foundation Auditorium, Minister Michel announced an investment of up to $120.2 million over the next two years to support the continued operations of 9-8-8, Canada’s national suicide crisis helpline.
Launched in 2023, 9-8-8 provides free, confidential, 24/7/365 support by call or text to anyone experiencing a suicide crisis or worried about someone they know. The service offers compassionate, trauma-informed, person-centred support in English and French from trained responders across Canada.
CAMH will continue to coordinate and operate 9-8-8, working in partnership with 37 network partners nationwide, including local crisis lines, provincial mental health services, and national organizations such as Kids Help Phone and Hope for Wellness.