New crisis hotline number ‘in everyone’s best interests’ amid rising call volume on Island
NANAIMO — Access to mental health and crisis supports is getting easier.
Beginning November 2023, a new national hotline number of 9-8-8 will come online, connecting people in need to a variety of crisis lines and mental health supports over the phone or via text.
Elizabeth Newcombe, executive director of the Vancouver Island Crisis Society, told NanaimoNewsNOW the expanded and easier to reach service will provide better, quicker care without tying up police, fire or ambulance resources.
“We would call 911 when we want a mental health check, but sometimes we already know police are stretched and if we can field those calls from the mental health perspective, support callers and avoid a 911 call, that’s in everyone’s best interests.”