The United States recently implemented a three-digit centralized mental health crisis line that connects those in need directly with health care professionals who can help them. Pressure is mounting in Canada for a similar three-digit suicide crisis hotline.

Ryan Murphy, manager of prevention and promotion Initiatives at the Mental Health Commission, says the caller will be directed to a trained crisis counsellor. Their line—988—is open 24/7 and offers phone, chat and texting.

He says a three-digit easy-to-remember number with trained counsellors is preferable to calling 911 or a 1-800 number.

Murphy notes that trained crisis counsellors work in mental health whereas 911 is not trained specifically in mental health.

Ottawa put the wheels in motion for such a dedicated line a couple of years ago and Murphy is hopeful that such a service will eventually materialize.