Mental health is an important part of our overall health and well-being. Throughout life most people experience times of good mental health. At other times, mental health may suffer due to loss, negative events or other stress in their life. People can develop symptoms of a mental illness, such as depression, anxiety or schizophrenia – for a number of reasons. Some people who are experiencing poor mental health or symptoms of a mental illness may have thoughts of suicide.
If you, or someone you know, are having thoughts of suicide or causing self-harm, call 9-1-1 or visit your nearest Emergency Department.
Getting Help
It is important to reach out if you are struggling with poor mental health. You are not alone, and there are resources available in our community to help you. Visit our Getting Help page for more information.
There are also online resources available to support you:
- Big White Wall – A free, online mental health support service where individuals 16+ can access peer support, information, and tailored self-help programs.
- Bounce Back – 1-800-345-0224. If you’re experiencing low mood, depression, and anxiety, BounceBack can help. Through BounceBack, adults and youth 15+ learn skills to help manage worry and anxiety, combat unhelpful thinking, and become more active and assertive. Please note that a referral from a health care provider is needed in order to access this service.
Video Resources
- How to Talk about Mental Health – Ottawa Public Health
- Building Resilience – Dr. Mike Evans
- 90:10 Stress – Psychology Foundation of Canada
