Help Is Here
Many Canadians find the holidays to be challenging, with more than half of Canadians saying that the holiday season can be a source of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Fortunately, this holiday season accessing help has become easier. Beginning November 30, Canadians in crisis from coast-to-coast will be able to call or text 9-8-8 and obtain counselling free of charge.
This new three-digit number aims to provide accessible and timely support to individuals in crisis, offering hope and saving lives. I was proud to vote in favour of establishing this hotline when my Conservative colleague, Member of Parliament Todd Doherty, introduced it in 2020. Since then, Canadians have waited years for 9-8-8 to be implemented; during this time, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of accessible mental health resources.
This easily remembered number allows individuals in distress to swiftly connect with trained professionals. 9-8-8 operates 24/7, providing immediate assistance and reducing barriers that may prevent someone from reaching out for help. Regardless of socio-economic status or geography, 9-8-8 allows for better access to support.
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health led the coordination of services for 9-8-8 with input from Provinces and Territories, Indigenous partners, crisis services, mental health experts, individuals with lived experience, and public safety officials. 9-8-8 will save the lives of Canadians who feel they have nowhere else to turn. By providing accessible, empathetic, and immediate support, this hotline serves as a beacon of hope, reducing the barriers to seeking help and saving lives.
If you or a loved one are struggling with your mental health, know that help is more accessible than ever. Please do not hesitate to call or text 9-8-8 any time you need mental health crisis or suicide prevention intervention and be sure to share this information with anyone who may be struggling.
MP – Calgary Confederation Len Webber proudly serves the following Communities: Balmoral, Banff Trail, Brentwood, Briar Hill, Bridgeland, Cambrian Heights, Capitol Hill, Charleswood, Collingwood, Crescent Heights, Dalhousie, Greenview, Greenview Industrial Park, Highland Park, Highwood, Hillhurst, Hounsfield Heights-Briar Hill, Montgomery, Mount Pleasant, Mountview, Parkdale, Point McKay, Queens Park Village, Renfrew, Riverside, Rosedale, Rosemont, St. Andrew Heights, Sunnyside, Tuxedo Park, University District, University Heights, Varsity Acres, West Hillhurst, Winston Heights-Mountview
