Government of Canada Renews Support for 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline at CAMH

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. 

A Strong Partnership for Suicide Prevention 

CAMH President and CEO Sarah Downey and Chief Medical Officer of 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline Dr. Allison Crawford welcomed Minister Michel alongside Parliamentary Secretary Maggie Chi, representatives from the Public Health Agency of Canada, 9-8-8 partners from across the country  and CAMH leaders and staff. 

“The continued funding for 9-8-8 reflects a strong commitment to suicide prevention and confidence in the crisis line and helpline partners delivering 9-8-8 nationwide,” said Downey. “As Canada’s largest mental health and addiction teaching hospital, CAMH is honoured to continue leading the implementation and operation of this life-saving service, ensuring that anyone, anywhere in the country can access timely, compassionate support when they need it most.” 

Minister Michel highlighted the importance of a 24/7/365 crisis line that is easy to remember for people in Canada.  

“We know that asking for help is not always easy—especially in moments of crisis,” said Minister Michel. “That is why 9-8-8 has been so vital for Canadians. Protecting mental health and well-being is a priority for our government, because there is no health without mental health.” 

Impact of 9-8-8 Across Canada 

Since launching on November 30, 2023, 9-8-8 has responded to more than 800,000 calls and texts, offering a simple, easy-to-remember pathway to support during moments of acute distress. 

Dr. Allison Crawford, Chief Medical Officer of the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline and psychiatrist at CAMH, spoke about the importance of continued investment in suicide prevention. 

“Suicide is complex, and many people struggle with whether to ask for help and where to find it,” said Dr. Crawford. “9-8-8 makes reaching out easier. Our message remains the same: if you’re feeling alone, stuck, or overwhelmed, you don’t have to face it alone. 9-8-8 is here to listen and support you.” 

Looking Ahead 

Every day in Canada, an average of 13 people die by suicide, and more than 250 people attempt to take their own lives. Continued investment in 9-8-8 ensures that people in crisis have a place to turn—anytime, anywhere. 

Today's announcement reaffirmed the strong partnership between CAMH, the Government of Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada, and crisis line partners nationwide, and the shared commitment to building a resilient, high-quality suicide prevention system for all Canadians. 

As 9-8-8 enters its next phase, CAMH remains proud to lead this national effort—supporting responders, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that help is always within reach.