(Submitted photo/CMHA Vernon)

By Pete McIntyre

Suicide Crisis Helpline

Vernon agency seeks crisis line volunteers

Jun 22, 2024 | 4:30 PM

The Vernon branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association is using the six-month anniversary of the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline to highlight the importance of the volunteers that support the service.

The helpline, which is available across Canada through 39 network partners, has seen more than 200,000 interactions via phone or text since launching late in 2023.

Jessica Both, CMHA Vernon’s manager of crisis intervention and prevention, said their crisis line responders have specialized skills to deliver immediate support in times of duress.

“They provide confidential, unbiased assistance through empathy, active listening, and compassionate risk assessments,” Both said.

“Our team goes above and beyond to support service users on both on the 988 service as well as our local lines, and we are in awe of their work every day.”

Up to $10K in Rebates

Rebates available for rooftop solar and battery-storage systems

3h ago

Senior Pension Protest

'We will be heard:' Seniors gather in Vernon to call for fair pension payments

3h ago

Binding arbitration

UPDATE: WestJet strike likely averted as Ottawa imposes arbitration on airline, mechanics

4h ago

The 9-8-8 helpline is free and confidential and provides live support by phone and text to everyone in Canada. It is available in English and French, 24 hours a day, every single day of the year.

“Working at CMHA Vernon as a crisis line responder has taught me that it doesn’t matter if you are a doctor, a lawyer, a child, a parent, a logger, or a nurse,” a responder said. “We all have mental health struggles from time to time or every day, and the most important thing is that when we need to reach out to someone, there’s someone to reach out to. The 9-8-8 Helpline is for everyone when they are thinking about ending their lives or experiencing a mental health crisis.”

North Okanagan residents can dial or text 9-8-8 or they can access existing services like the Interior Crisis Line Network at 1-888-353-2273.

Every day in Canada, an average of 12 people die by suicide and suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 15 to 34. Research shows suicide can be preventable and that crisis services helps save lives.

CMHA Vernon & District is looking for volunteers for crisis intervention and prevention services, including the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline.

“Before becoming a crisis line responder, I thought mental health conversations were for hushed spaces. Now I have the pleasure of speaking with people from all walks of life. It has been eye opening, cathartic and soul building. It’s an opportunity to give back that I am incredibly grateful to be part of,” said one responder.

Volunteers are carefully screened and fully trained prior to taking calls. Volunteers also receive ongoing professional support.

To learn more about being a crisis line volunteer, go to https://cmhavernon.ca/crisis-line/

The 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline is funded by the Government of Canada and delivered by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and its partners, including CMHA Vernon & District.