Quinte Health’s top doctor is praising a new national Suicide Crisis Helpline.
Dr. Colin MacPherson, Chief of Staff for the organization which oversees North Hastings Hospital, says Quinte Health will be a partner in the program.
Quinte Health responders will take 9-8-8 calls and provide support to people who are thinking about suicide or worried about someone they know.
MacPherson says it’s a much-needed service.
“We have people who come into our emergency department, who regularly seek help for issues related to suicidal thinking and feeling overwhelmed,” he says. “We know at these critical times in their lives, they have benefitted from support, from hearing another human voice.”
“If we can make it easier for people to get help in these moments, I think it will make a difference.”
MacPherson encourages people to use the service if they need it, saying there’s nothing wrong with accepting you need help for mental health.