A path out of crisis: Jessica’s story 

This story contains explicit mentions of suicidality and the impacts of suicide. 

Jessica sits on the edge of her bed, the world a blur of despair. The thoughts had been swirling for weeks, but tonight, they were deafening. “It would be better if I wasn’t here,” she whispers, tears streaming down her face. Overwhelmed and afraid, she dials 911.

Police arrive and transport Jessica to the emergency room. Jessica feels shame being walked out to the police car, and fears her neighbours will think she is being arrested. In a busy, loud emergency room, the bright lights and sterile environment do little to ease her distress. After hours of waiting, a doctor finally sees her. She recounted her thoughts, her feelings of hopelessness.

“Are you planning to harm yourself right now?” the doctor asked.

“I… don’t know,” Jessica stammered, her voice trembling.

After a brief assessment, the doctor concludes that Jessica doesn’t meet the threshold for admission. “You’re experiencing significant distress,” he tells her, “but you’re not in immediate danger. Here’s a pamphlet on mental health resources. Please follow up with your family doctor.”

Jessica is discharged, the pamphlet crumpled in her pocket. She finds her own way home, alone once more. Without any immediate follow-up or support, Jessica’s despair intensifies. She wonders if she has to actually attempt to kill herself to be taken seriously.

Another Path: The Continuum of Care 

As before, the 911 operator answers, and Jessica, through tears, tries to convey her distress. The operator, trained in crisis intervention protocols, recognizes the signs of a mental health emergency. 

“Jessica,” the operator says calmly, “I understand you’re going through a very difficult time. We want to get you the right kind of support. I’m going to connect you with the Crisis Centre of BC.”

The 911 operator facilitates a warm transfer, directly connecting Jessica to the Crisis Centre. A calm, compassionate voice answers. “Crisis Centre, how can I help you?”

Jessica pours out her heart about her fears, her feelings of hopelessness. The responder listens patiently, validating her emotions. They don’t dismiss her pain, but acknowledge its reality. They ask about her safety plan, and if she has any support people.

The responder helps her explore coping strategies, offering practical advice and emotional support. They talk about her feelings, her triggers, and her strengths. They work with her to create a safety plan.

“You’re not alone,” they reassure her. “We’re here for you. We can connect you with follow-up support, including mental health services and community resources.”

Instead of being discharged into a void, Jessica receives a referral to a community-based support program. She is offered a follow up call from the crisis line the next day. She feels seen and supported.

 The crisis line, acting as a crucial first point of contact, de-escalates the immediate crisis. The follow-up support ensures that Jessica receives the ongoing care she needs, preventing a potential suicide attempt.

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Crisis lines are available across British Columbia 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you or someone you know needs help, please call:

• 9-8-8 (call or text)
• 310-6789 (no area code needed)
• 1-800-SUICIDE / 1-800-784-2433
• 604-872-3311