You are not alone – Message from the Minister of Health on World Suicide Prevention Day

Press Release

From: Public Health Agency of Canada

September 10, 2025

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1.
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline for help from a trained responder.
Help is also available through Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868) and the Hope for Wellness Help Line for Indigenous populations (1-855-242-3310).

Suicide is a deeply tragic and complex reality that affects many lives across the country. Every day in Canada, on average, 12 people die by suicide, and more than 200 people attempt it.

Today, on World Suicide Prevention Day, we must break taboos surrounding suicide, promote open dialogue, and direct people toward the help they need—actions that, ultimately, can save lives.

It is crucial to know that no matter when or where you are in Canada, support is available. The 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline offers a safe, bilingual space for discussion that is trauma-informed and culturally sensitive, whether you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one. Since its launch in November 2023, 9-8-8 operators have answered close to 600,000 calls and text messages.

Supporting the mental health and well-being of Canadians continues to be a priority for our government. We will continue to work with provinces, territories, and all partners to strengthen our collective efforts to save lives, including investments in mental health and implementation of the National Suicide Prevention Action Plan.

Together, we can strengthen our suicide prevention efforts so that fewer lives are tragically lost and individuals and communities receive the support they need when they need it most.

The Honourable Marjorie Michel P.C., M.P.

Contacts

Guillaume Bertrand
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Marjorie Michel
Minister of Health
guillaume.bertrand@hc-sc.gc.ca

Media Relations
Health Canada
613-957-2983
media@hc-sc.gc.ca

Public Inquiries
613-957-2991
1-866-225-0709

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