The U.S. 988 mental health hotline will offer residents struggling with suicidal thoughts an easy-to-remember number that will connect them with mental health counsellors rather than police. Mental health advocates have been pushing for a similar system in Canada. The House of Commons unanimously voted in favour of establishing a three-digit suicide prevention number in 2020. Talk Suicide Canada says a system like 988 would both show those struggling with mental health crises that suicide prevention is taken seriously and make it easier for Canadians to access urgent help. Ottawa says the CRTC is evaluating how the number could be introduced and a decision is expected later this year. Meanwhile, PHAC is trying to estimate the expected demand for this hotline and plan for managing increased call volumes.
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