A three-digit national suicide crisis helpline launches November 30th with the local Canadian Mental Health Association one of 45 providers of the new service.
Available 24-7, 9-8-8 will connect those considering suicide and those worried about another with responders who will provide confidential support. Local 9-8-8 callers will be re-routed to call takers based at the CMHA call centre in downtown Peterborough.
Noting some 15,000 Canadians take their own lives every year, CMHA executive director Mark Graham says the federal government’s action in establishing the helpline is long overdue.
Graham says local CMHA involvement as a helpline service provider is most welcome.
Graham adds the benefit of callers connecting with a ‘live’ responder is huge.
Written by: Paul Rellinger
