Canadian Mental Health Hotlines
Feeling overwhelmed or struggling with your mental health? You're not alone. Canadian mental health hotlines offer confidential, 24/7 support for anyone seeking help. This page serves as your guide, listing services, explaining how to access them, and highlighting why they matter. Take the first step towards feeling better - reach out today.
In Canada, millions of people experience mental health challenges at some point in their lives. If you're struggling, reaching out for help is the bravest and most important step you can take. Mental health hotlines offer confidential, non-judgmental support 24/7, day or night. Whether you're in crisis, need someone to listen, or just want information, hotlines are a valuable resource for anyone seeking mental health support.
From the CRTC Canadian Government Website:
Canadians can call or text 9-8-8 to access bilingual, trauma-informed, and culturally appropriate mental health and suicide prevention support. The service is free and can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Trained crisis responders will listen to you and provide support with compassion, providing a safe space for you to talk.
To contact the hotline, simply pick up your phone and dial 9-8-8 or click the button below if you are on mobile.
Provincial Mental Health Hotlines or Services.
January 2024: All listed numbers are 24/7 non-crisis phone numbers. If you, a family member or a friend are in crisis, thinking of suicide call 988 for help or 911 for emergencies.
Navigating mental health challenges can be difficult
Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, or any other mental health issue, seeking support is crucial for your well-being. Canada offers a wide range of accessible and confidential mental health resources, including hotlines specifically designed to provide immediate support and guidance. This blog page will serve as your guide to Canadian mental health hotlines, offering comprehensive information on available services, how to access them, and what to expect when you call.
Accessing a Mental Health Hotline:
Finding the right hotline is easy. This blog page lists various hotlines across Canada, along with their contact information and areas of expertise. Most hotlines offer toll-free numbers and online chat options, making access convenient and discreet.
Taking the First Step:
Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Don't hesitate to call a mental health hotline if you're feeling overwhelmed or need someone to talk to. They are there to listen, support, and guide you towards the resources you need to manage your mental health and feel better.
Rising Above the Odds: TEMA's GivingTuesday Soars Amidst Charity Decline in Support of Mental Health
In the face of dwindling charity donations across Canada, one organization stood out on November 28th, 2023 - The Tema Foundation. Despite economic challenges and a decline in overall charitable contributions, TEMA's GivingTuesday campaign saw a remarkable surge, more than tripling their donations. This unexpected turn of events speaks volumes about the enduring importance people place on mental health, particularly for frontline workers, first responders, healthcare professionals, and public safety personnel.
The Cost of Caring:
In the wake of recent challenges such as wildfires, the loyalty and commitment of frontline workers have been nothing short of extraordinary. Recognizing the toll these experiences can take on mental health, the Tema Foundation strives to equip, support, and empower individuals in their daily roles. However, the rising cost of living isn't just impacting those seeking assistance from shelters and food banks; it's also affecting charities like TEMA, compelling them to do more with less.
The National Context:
In the aftermath of the Black Friday-Cyber Monday spending frenzy, comes GivingTuesday, urging Canadians to open their hearts and wallets to those in need. Charities nationwide expressed concern about the cumulative effects of an elevated cost of living, with 57.3% reporting an inability to meet current levels of demand. A concerning 31.5% of charities experienced a decrease in funds raised in 2022, while 42% expressed deep concern about possible volunteer burnout. Additionally, the percentage of Canadians contributing to charities has declined by 5% over the past decade, according to the latest tax filer data.
Tema’s GivingTuesday Triumph:
Amidst this challenging landscape, TEMA's GivingTuesday campaign emerged as a beacon of hope. The unexpected surge in donations signals a prevailing recognition of the critical role mental health plays in sustaining those who safeguard our communities. The outpouring of support on November 28th demonstrated that even in times of economic strain, people prioritize the well-being of those who dedicate their lives to public service.
Continue the Momentum:
TEMA's success on GivingTuesday 2023 serves as a springboard for the organization's growth and continued impact. With the newfound resources, TEMA can further address mental health issues related to trauma, suicide, and the unique challenges faced by families, as well as management and leadership in high-stress professions. The generosity displayed on this significant day is not just a one-time event; it signifies a commitment to sustaining the mental well-being of those who sacrifice so much for the safety and welfare of others.
In conclusion, TEMA's GivingTuesday triumph is a testament to the enduring importance people place on mental health, even in the face of economic challenges. The generosity displayed not only bolsters TEMA's mission but also signifies a collective understanding of the vital role mental well-being plays in the lives of those who selflessly serve their communities. As TEMA continues its journey, the momentum generated on GivingTuesday ensures a brighter and more resilient future for mental health support in Canada.
*Data was taken from the Canada Helps: Giving Report https://www.canadahelps.org/en/the-giving-report/*
Bridging Mental Health: Training Insights with Clearwater
In a recent conversation, we had a chance to delve into the unique training collaboration between the Tema Foundation and Clearwater. This collaboration aimed not only to impart mental health training but also to highlight the value it brings across various industries.
The conversation started with a focus on the goals set forth in the training and collaboration —raising awareness about Tema's workplace mental health training and shedding light on Clearwater’s commitment to employee well-being through these training sessions.
The training sessions were aimed at captains & senior crew members, on various vessels in the Nova Scotia area. The process involved a customized approach, acknowledging the diverse nature of the work and the personal dynamics of those involved. What was truly striking was the investment in tailoring the training to suit the needs of individuals, going beyond a standard curriculum.
This approach wasn't just about transferring information; it was about engaging in dialogues, understanding the unique challenges, and offering strategies that would resonate with the crew's specific experiences. The training sought to build trust, providing a safe space for these individuals to open up and share their thoughts, fears, and challenges, acknowledging the sacrifices they make, being away from their families for extended periods to provide for them.
The intricacies of the work culture became apparent during these sessions. The attendees—primarily men—shared the realities of their day-to-day lives, where birthdays, holidays, and other significant moments were missed due to their commitment to the job. The long days at sea, the uncertainties of weather conditions, and the emotional toll of being away from loved ones were significant themes that surfaced.
What became evident was the stressors and mental health challenges these professionals faced. The fear and anxiety that preceded their departures, coupled with the isolation and information overload brought by social media during their absence, added layers to their mental well-being struggles. They shared how their emotional state fluctuated from the anxious anticipation of departure to the longing for home on the return, balancing the dynamic shift in family dynamics upon their arrival.
The impact of the training was noticeable, even after a single session. The shift in perspectives, the conversations initiated, and the newfound awareness of mental health needs among the crew was remarkable. The importance of fostering an open dialogue and providing resources to support their mental well-being was evident, considering the challenges they face.
The conversation provided insight into the gradual shift in the industry's perception of mental health training. Some of the crew members initially believed in a 'suck it up and get on with the job' approach. However, this perception evolved as the need for mental health support and strategies to cope with the unique challenges of their profession became apparent.
This collaboration between Tema and Clearwater exemplifies a step forward in acknowledging and addressing mental health within industries that are traditionally less open to such discussions. The journey to creating an environment where mental health is prioritized is ongoing. However, the strides taken through these training sessions mark a significant beginning.
The commitment to these initiatives and the ongoing support from Clearwater signal a positive shift in the landscape of workplace mental health within maritime professions. The aim is not just to impart training but to instill a culture where mental health is recognized, valued, and supported for the overall well-being of the workforce.
As this collaboration continues to grow and evolve, it marks a promising trend towards a more compassionate and supportive work environment within these unique industries. The journey is ongoing, but the seeds of change are being sown, nurturing a healthier, more resilient workforce.
The conversation ended on a note of appreciation for the work being done and a hopeful outlook for the future developments and advancements in mental health support within this sector.
The training collaboration between Tema and Clearwater, emphasizes the crucial role mental health training plays in traditionally under-addressed industries. The strides made and the evolving perception of mental health within the profession marks a significant step towards a more supportive and compassionate work environment.
An update from the Frontlines: October 2023
Summer is over and we are well into the fall season, which tends to be a busy time for many, especially the work at the Tema Foundation.
We kicked off the month with a mental health and wellness training with staff at Grammar School, a private elementary and secondary school in Halifax. This initiative is the start of a 3-Tier peer support program for the youth of this school. The plan is to train staff first, then provide some mental health education to parents, and finally create a much needed peer support program that will be run by youth and supported by their teachers/mentors at the school. The commitment to making a supportive and empathetic school culture is what can significantly improve the mental health and overall wellbeing of the children and youth in this environment.
Another very exciting initiative was the opportunity we had to provide mental health training to new fire recruits through Halifax Fire. This training was comprehensive and tailored to the unique challenges and demands of their profession. The key areas of focus included mental health awareness; trauma and stress management; resilience building; self-care; crisis management; communication and suicide prevention. In addition the Tema Foundation will be meeting individually with each of the recruits and their loved ones to plan a strategy for ensuring continued support in their mental health and resilience.
In mid September we focused on Ontario and were able to roll out very dynamic peer support training for the Oxford County Paramedic service. The training included some of their original peer supporters along with the new nominated members. This paramedic service has such a strong commitment to mental health and wellness and a strong support from their managers. We look forward to watching them continue to make a difference.
Our other very exciting opportunity was the peer support training we did with the Northumberland Golden Plough Lodge, a long-term care facility in Cobourg, Ontario. Peer support in a long-term care facility is a vital component of promoting the wellbeing and effectiveness of staff. Having a supportive network among colleagues, long-term care staff can better cope with the demands of their profession, improve the quality of care they provide, and reduce the risk of burnout and turnover. We all know that long-term care facilities have suffered greatly over the past few years, which makes this initiative so important. The team of peer supporters we trained are excited, committed, and ready to take on this amazing opportunity to make mental health better in their workplace.
In the late part of summer, the United Way in Nova Scotia reached out to us to see if we could support the volunteers who were helping deal with families in the aftermath of the Tantallon and Shelburne wildfires. We quickly moved on this request by offering a workshop on “The Cost of Caring” in the Tantallon, Shelburne, and Barrington community. Volunteers who work with people in tragic situations play a crucial role in providing support, empathy, and assistance during times of crisis. To ensure that these volunteers are well prepared and capable of handling such emotionally charged situations, we felt it was essential to provide this workshop that focused on self-care, resilience, and an opportunity to debrief. It was a rewarding opportunity to meet the many selfless volunteers behind the scenes making an impact in these communities in times of need.
In October we ‘set sail’ in another creative direction. Well, we didn’t really set sail but we did have the opportunity to offer much needed mental health and wellness training for Captains and Senior Crew Leaders from several fishing vessels from Clearwater Seafood Inc. in Nova Scotia. Mental health training for fishing vessel captains and senior crew leaders is part of a broader effort to create a safer and more supportive work environment in an industry that is known for its unique challenges (high risk work, isolation, separation from loved ones). We were so impressed with the openness these individuals had in trusting the training material and seeing the importance in what they need to do to stay healthy both physically and emotionally/psychologically. We feel quite honoured that Clearwater Seafood reached out and worked closely with us to create such a unique training that we believe will be life saving.
We continue to be excited by the unique opportunities we are launching. Please take the time to have a look around the website so you can look at the many courses, and opportunities available for those working the frontlines and their loved ones. We can’t wait to share more soon!
Shedding Light on Suicide Awareness Month
IF YOU ARE IN A CRISIS CALL 911 OR VISIT A HOSPITAL IMMEDIATELY
If you are in a crisis situation please immediately call 911 or visit your nearest emergency medical facility and ask someone you trust to stay with you. Text 45645 or call 1-833-456-4566 for The Canada Suicide Prevention Service hotline or visit https://www.talksuicide.ca which provides personal crisis support to Canadians 24/7.
September is Suicide Awareness Month, with September 10th marking World Suicide Prevention Day, a critical time to shine a light on a complex and sensitive topic that affects individuals, families, and communities across the globe. In Canada, where the need for increased awareness and support is evident, this month serves as an opportunity to foster open conversations and address the specific challenges faced by those who work to keep others healthy and safe.
“I Want to Kill Myself” and “How to Kill Myself” were searched online over 30,000 times in Canada last year*.
*Keyword Research data acquired from SEMRush 2023-08-26
It’s a staggering statistic, but one that highlights the need to speak openly and candidly about the topic. According to Canadian suicide statistics, approximately 11 people die by suicide each day in the country. In 2020, the most recent year for which complete data is available, there were 4,079 reported suicides in Canada. Suicide remains the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 34.
Suicide among First Responders and Frontline Workers
A 2018 study of Canadian Public Safety Personnel (PSP, eg. correctional workers, dispatchers, firefighters, paramedics, police) showed that levels of suicidal behaviour were higher among PSP than the general public. The study also showed that younger PSP (under 30) were more likely to report suicidal behaviours. The study highlights the need for targeted efforts to support the mental health of PSPs, and in particular better preparedness for young people entering these roles in the workforce. Dr. Jason Powell addressed an aspect of this topic specific to nursing in his presentation at Tema’s Education Day 2023.
Breaking the Stigma: Raising Suicide Awareness
The Tema Foundation focuses on mental health initiatives that aim to address the unique challenges faced by first responders and frontline workers. The demanding nature of their work, exposure to traumatic events, and long hours under intense pressure can lead to increased vulnerability to mental health struggles, including suicidal ideation. To make matters worse, people in these roles are often hesitant to seek help or accept support. By raising awareness amoung these individuals we can encourage open conversations and help to break the stigma surrounding mental health struggles.
Preventing Suicide Together
Suicide prevention is not solely the responsibility of mental health organizations and professionals; it's a collective effort that requires the engagement of every Canadian. Family members, friends, colleagues, and neighbors can play a pivotal role by learning about the warning signs of suicide, offering a listening ear, and connecting individuals to appropriate resources. By cultivating empathy, understanding, and compassion, we can all contribute to a more compassionate and supportive society.
Resources
Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment