What is the difference between 9-8-8 and other helplines? Can I continue to call my local crisis line instead of 9-8-8?

9-8-8 is delivered by a network of crisis lines across the country. These partners are local, provincial and territorial, and national crisis lines whose responders take 9-8-8 calls and/or texts.
9-8-8’s main goal is to prevent suicide. All 9-8-8 responders are trained in suicide prevention and everyone who contacts 9-8-8 is assessed for suicide risk.
There is no wrong way to ask for help. Whether you reach out to 9-8-8 or an existing local, provincial and territorial, or national helplines, someone will be there to give you the support you need.