Resources for someone experiencing suicidal thoughts
In our society, people talk about mental health more than ever. But suicide is often kept quiet – and it’s costing lives. For our 2022 Annual Report, we wanted to emphasize the importance of talking about suicide, like we do every day at DC. 27% of Distress Centre’s crisis contacts were suicide-related in 2022, increasing to 48% when we look at only chat and text contacts.
We believe that if someone talks about suicide, that’s a good thing. It means they overcame the stigma that surrounds the topic in order to speak about it, and talking about creates the opportunity for them to receive help.
If you or someone you love is having thoughts of suicide, we are here to listen and help. Here are seven resources for someone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Distress Centre Crisis Services
At Distress Centre, we offer a variety of services to help those struggling with thoughts of suicide, including support lines and chats, and in-house counselling.
24 Hour Crisis Support
Phone or text: 403-266–HELP (403-266-4357)
Online Chat:
ConnecTeen – Youth Peer Support (Phone, Text, or Chat)
Phone: 403-264–8336
Text: 587-333–2724
Chat: Access Here
Crisis Counselling
Professional short-term counselling for more complex issues. Phone, video and in-person appointments are available. Contact our crisis line at (403) 266 – 4357 to ask for an intake to counselling or fill out our intake form online.
Guide: Safety planning for suicide and self-harm
A safety plan can be an effective tool to help mitigate self-harm and suicidal behaviours. The purpose of a safety plan is to help you cope and distract you from suicidal thoughts and thoughts of self-harm, so you can get through the initial state of intense crisis and cope until the feelings have passed or you are able to connect with further help.
Read More: Creating a safety plan for suicidal thoughts and self-harm
5 steps to help someone who is having suicidal thoughts
Read More: 5 steps to help someone who is having suicidal thoughts
211 Alberta – 24 Hour Information and Navigation (Phone, Text, or Chat)
Contact 211 to connect with resources and services in your area, including mental health services.
Phone or text: 2-1-1
Chat: www.ab.211.ca
Talk Suicide Canada (Phone or Text)
Outside Calgary? Contact Talk Suicide by phone or text for support.
Phone: 1-833-456-4566 (24 Hour)
Text: 45645 (4pm – midnight)
