Frequently asked questions

Brotherline is a peer-support platform created for men, by men. It’s a space where you can talk to someone who’s been through what you’re going through, whether it’s grief, divorce, depression, stress, or anything else. We offer one-on-one support or small group circles. We’re not therapists, we’re just here to listen, without judgment.

No. Brotherline is not therapy, counseling, or a substitute for professional mental health care. Our volunteers are not licensed professionals, they’re men who’ve faced real challenges and are willing to offer support through shared experience.

If you’re in crisis or need immediate help, please call 9-8-8, the Suicide Crisis Helpline (Canada, 24/7), or reach out to local emergency services.

Brotherline is open to anyone who identifies as a man and is 18 years or older. You don’t need a diagnosis or a perfect explanation of what you’re going through. You just need the courage to reach out.

Once you send us a message, we’ll match you with a volunteer who’s experienced something similar to what you’re facing. You can choose to connect via phone, video call, or text/chat  whichever you’re most comfortable with. You can also join a group session if you prefer listening or sharing with others.

Yes. Everything you share with us is kept completely confidential. Your story stays between you and the person or group you connect with. The only exception is if someone is at immediate risk of harm, in that case, we may need to act to ensure everyone’s safety.

Nothing. Brotherline is completely free. We’re a volunteer-run space. No hidden fees, no upsells, no catch. Just support.

That’s totally okay. You don’t have to have the right words. You don’t even have to know what you’re feeling. Just start wherever you are. We’ll meet you there, no judgment, no pressure.

If you’ve been through something difficult and you’re ready to support someone else, we’d love to hear from you. Fill out the [Volunteer Form] and we’ll get in touch to guide you through the process. No professional background required,  just honesty, compassion, and the ability to listen.

At the moment, most of our conversations are in English, but we are working toward building a diverse volunteer base that can support men in French and other languages. If you need support in another language, let us know , we’ll do our best to match you with someone who can help.