988
9-8-8 is a new national three-digit helpline that provides urgent, live support by phone and text for anyone who is thinking about suicide, seeking crisis support, or who is worried about someone they know.
Phone or text: 9-8-8
Distress Centre Calgary is a 9-8-8 partner and part of the network of crisis lines across the country whose responders take 9-8-8 calls and texts.
Distress Centre has been involved with the efforts to offer a national suicide prevention service since the Canadian Distress Line Network (CDLN) formed in 2002. Crisis Services Canada evolved out of the CDLN and launched the Canada Suicide Prevention Service in 2017. Distress Centre was one of the first four pilot sites when that service launched in 2017 and continued being a partner and answering contacts when it became Talk Suicide in 2022.
Our local crisis lines remain available for anyone requiring crisis and emotional support, including needing support for thoughts of suicide. We can be reached 24 hours a day by phoning or texting 403-266-HELP (403-266-4357) or chatting online at DistressCentre.com.
Whether someone contacts 9-8-8 or our local lines, they will receive support.
211 also remains available for information and navigation support, including help connecting to mental health and addictions resources.
Opportunities to Help
Our volunteer opportunities allow you to provide support in various ways, including over the phone and via chat, text, or email. We also provide extensive practical and ongoing training.
As Calgary’s only 24-hour crisis agency, we are often the first point of contact for those seeking help. Make a career out of making a difference!
Distress Centre is committed to furthering the field of social work, and we view practicum students as a great asset to our team. Practicum opportunities exist year-round within the Crisis Line Program and Counselling Program, along with other opportunities.
Check Out Our Blog
Explore what’s new in the community and important updates from Distress Centre.
DCC Stories of Hope: Alex and our crisis support service
Listen to Alex’s powerful story of finding hope through Distress Centre Calgary. Calling Distress Centre Calgary and being able to interact with the amazing and caring people in my lowest [...]Read More... from DCC Stories of Hope: Alex and our crisis support service
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David Kirby celebrates 20 years at Distress Centre Calgary
David Kirby, our Clinical Services Manager, has achieved a remarkable milestone – 20 years of service as a member of our staff at Distress Centre Calgary. But David’s journey at [...]Read More... from David Kirby celebrates 20 years at Distress Centre Calgary
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Stories of Hope for Giving Tuesday
This Giving Tuesday, we’re sharing stories of hope—how we’ve been there for those who needed support, no matter the reason. Thanks to our volunteers and supporters, we've been able to provide hope to countless individuals going through challenging times in their life. [...]Read More... from Stories of Hope for Giving Tuesday
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How to donate during the Canada Post strike
Due to the Canada Post strike, some of our mailings may be delayed, which could impact the vital funds we rely on during our annual giving campaign. We’ve been sharing [...]Read More... from How to donate during the Canada Post strike
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DCC Stories of Hope: Taylor and 211
Amid the chaos and uncertainty, Taylor* found comfort on the other end of the line. After being transferred from 911 to the 211 co-location team, Taylor shared their story with [...]Read More... from DCC Stories of Hope: Taylor and 211
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Donor Spotlight: Alberta Law Foundation
A $243,690 grant from Alberta Law Foundation supports Distress Centre Calgary's Justice System Initiative, helping Calgarians overcome critical legal barriers. [...]Read More... from Donor Spotlight: Alberta Law Foundation
READOur Impact Funders
we want you to know that your donation is currently supporting someone in crisis. thank you for your contributions.
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FIND US
Email: info@distresscentre.com24-Hour Crisis Line: 403-266-4357
Main Office: 403-266-1601
Youth Program Office: 403-264-8337
Calgary, AB T2R 1J5 | View Map
Charitable Registration Number:
107021024RR0001
In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and truth, Distress Centre Calgary would like to honour and acknowledge Moh’kinsstis, and the traditional Treaty 7 territory and oral practices of the Blackfoot confederacy: Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina nations. We acknowledge that this territory is home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3 within the historical Northwest Métis homeland. Finally, we acknowledge all Nations – Indigenous and non – who live, work and play on this land, and who honour and celebrate this territory.
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