Perth-Wellington MP John Nater said the federal government's suicide prevention helpline, 988, is getting about 1,000 calls per day.
The figures from the first few months of the national program speak to the need for the service in the country, however, Nater said more can be done to ensure people are reaching out for help.
"The service is being used, which is an important step," the MP told BradfordToday and InnisfilToday's sister publication, StratfordToday. "But we need to continue to break down that stigma."
Nater said no one hesitates to call 911 for a physical injury or emergency situation, and the hope is that way of thinking — reaching out for help — extends to those who are suffering through mental health and other challenges, and might be considering suicide.
About 12 people die by suicide in Canada every day, about 4,500 lives lost each year, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada. More than 200 people in Canada attempt suicide every day.
The $158.4-million project is led by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto. It is staffed round-the-clock.
Nater said the helpline, which launched last November, also receives about 450 texts per day.
Locally, South Simcoe police responded to 566 mental-health-related calls in 2023. The department does have a crisis outreach and support team that consists of a specially trained officer and a mental-health professional.
The 988 helpline expands on the existing Talk Suicide Canada helpline, which had a toll-free 10-digit number and did not have 24-hour texting service.
In addition to CAMH, the 988 response network is staffed by more than three dozen partner organizations, including Kids Help Phone and community mental health agencies across the country. They can help connect callers with local supports.
Nater said the increase in mental health concerns is something he often hears while talking to constituents.
Talking to different service clubs, different organizations, support groups — one of the things we hear across the board is a need for increased focus on resources for mental health in general but specifically for crisis support."
"The number is there now. We encourage people to please use it if needed, not to hesitate to call that number."
— With files from Canadian Press
