Crisis support

In crisis, or having thoughts of suicide? Call or text 9-8-8.

If you are feeling like you have lost hope and are struggling to cope, if you are dealing with thoughts of suicide, or if you are worried about someone else, 9-8-8 is here for you. When you reach out, a trained responder will listen without judgement, provide support and understanding, and can tell you about resources that will help.

9-8-8 is here to provide moments of connection that create hope, support recovery and save lives. They help people connect to their strengths and find new ways to cope, live and thrive.

9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline follows a network model

When you call or text 9-8-8, you will reach a responder at one of nearly 40 local, provincial and territorial, and national crisis lines, who co-deliver the service across Canada. They provide existing crisis services within their communities, as well as taking 9-8-8 calls and texts. They are here to make sure that you can connect to a responder within your local community.

Other 9-8-8 partners include Hope for Wellness who offer specialized support for First Nations, Inuit and Métis, and Kids Help Phone, who specialize in supporting young people reaching out to 9-8-8.

Additional resources

  • Crisis Centre BC: B.C. Mental Health & Crisis Response: 310-6789 (no area code needed).

  • Government of Canada: Mental health support

  • Seniors First BC's  Seniors Abuse & Information Line (SAIL) is a confidential information line for older adults and those who care about them to speak to a professional intake worker about abuse, mistreatment and any issues that impact the health and well-being of older adults in B.C.

    If you are calling SAIL from the Lower Mainland, please call 1-604-437-1940. For callers located in the rest of B.C. please call toll-free 1-866-437-1940. SAIL is available on weekdays 8 am to 8 pm, excluding statutory holidays.  Language interpretation is available.

  • Trans Lifeline's Hotline: peer support by trans people for our trans/questioning peers. Call us if you need someone trans to talk to, even if you're not in a crisis or if you're not sure you're trans.