9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline – Implementing a Pan-Canadian Program to Prevent Suicide

Summary

In 2023, Canada launched 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline to provide easy access to immediate, equitable suicide prevention support. This paper describes how the service was planned and launched, and how it is now being evaluated. It also highlights why an adaptable approach to crisis line services is key to long-term success.