Most of us go through life solving our day-to-day problems without needing help to cope with our feelings. But a severe illness, an accident or an emotional crisis can overwhelm us, at least temporarily, and suddenly we need help.
There are many resources available to help when you or someone you know is in distress and is looking for help.
If you or someone you know is in crisis and requires emergency assistance:
∙ Visit your local emergency department, or call 911
∙ Contact one of the Crisis Response Programs below:
ONTARIO211.CA
211 is a telephone helpline (call 2-1-1) and website that provides information on and referrals to Ontario’s community, social, health-related and government services. We can help you understand what services and government benefits exist and explain how to apply.
211 is answered 24 hours a day, every day of the year across Ontario. We list over 60,000 community and government programs and services.
We also provide an interpreter in over 150 languages. When 211 answers the phone, ask for the language you want and hold the line.
ADDICTION CENTRE ( USA) 855 904 1952 No matter where you live, there is a drug rehab center that can help you overcome your addiction. We can help you find treatment based on your location, budget, and specific needs and help you get started quickly. www.AddictionCenter.com/Addiction/Dual-Diagnosis
ADDICTION GROUP.ORG (USA) Alcohol misuse and abuse are widespread issues affecting millions of people of all ages and backgrounds. Our team of journalists, researchers, doctors, and medical professionals has created a fact-based resource center on alcohol addiction and treatment. Learn more about causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Addiction Group is dedicated to help individuals suffering from substance abuse and prevent new cases through credible information and spreading awareness to as many as we can reach. Every fact-based piece of content is written by journalists or medical professionals. Also, we have no affiliations to any rehab centers, we aren’t sponsored, and we display no advertisements on our website. https://www.addictiongroup.org/resources/
ADDICTION REHAB CENTRES (USA) https://www.addictionrehabcenters.com/ 877-659-4555 Addiction is a chronic disease – not a personal failure. We help people beat the disease of heroin, opioid and alcohol addiction with dignity. With a unique approach designed to shed light on the issues underlying the addiction, we treat people differently. At Addiction Rehab Centers, we combine the 12-Steps with Intense Process Therapy to lead our patients to a path that ensures life-long recovery and a drug free life style. Each individual has unique needs which require a tailor-made recovery program. We focus on ‘why’ rather than ‘how’ individuals get addicted because without understanding and treating the core issue, the possibility of a relapse always remains. In many cases, individuals use drugs to escape the memories of a painful experience such as emotional, physical or sexual abuse, abandonment, co-dependency etc., making it impossible to effectively treat addictive behaviours without treating the underlying causes
ALCOHOL REHAB GUIDE (877) 624-1853 ARG is dedicated to helping people overcome alcoholism and achieve long-term sobriety. Our team is made up of individuals who have personal experience with alcohol addiction, and understand the importance of delivering top-notch resources and information. That was our inspiration. ARG aims to educate people on the dangers of alcohol addiction and guide them or their loved one into a treatment program. https://www.alcoholrehabguide.org/treatment/
ALCOHOL REHAB HELP - 12 Step Program - AA (USA) 1 855 772 9047 https://alcoholrehabhelp.org/treatment/12-step-programs/ Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is an international organization, with no formal membership, and a fellowship of men and women recovering from alcohol addiction. Membership is open to anyone that wants to stop drinking and address their drinking problem. Led by their 12 Step Program, AA offers meetings and groups around the world. AA meetings allow recovering alcoholics to interact with, learn from, and mutually support others struggling with alcohol use disorder.
ANISHNAWBE 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Management Service: 416-891-8606 (Aboriginal clients) not only promotes Traditional Aboriginal practices but has affirmed and placed them at its core. Its model of health care is based on Traditional practices and approaches and are reflected in the design of its programs and services.
ASSAULTED WOMEN'S HELPLINE: 416-863-0511; Toll Free 1-866-863-0511 For more than 25 years, the Assaulted Women’s Helpline has served as a free, anonymous and confidential 24-hour telephone and TTY crisis telephone line to all women in the province of Ontario who have experienced any form of abuse.
BARBARA SCHLIFER COMMEMORATIVE CLINIC: http://schliferclinic.com
The Schlifer Clinic offers legal representation, professional counselling and multilingual interpretation to women who have experienced abuse. 416 323 9149
BOUNCE BACK 1 866 345 0224 BounceBack® is a free skill-building program managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). It is designed to help adults and youth 15+ manage low mood, mild to moderate depression and anxiety, stress or worry. Delivered over the phone with a coach and through online videos, you will get access to tools that will support you on your path to mental wellness. https://bouncebackontario.ca/
CANADIAN MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION https://toronto.cmha.ca/mental-health/find-help/ CMHA was founded in 1918, is a nationwide, charitable organization that promotes mental health for all. Over the past century, CMHA has grown to provide mental health services and supports across Canada in over 330 communities, with our local branch, CMHA Toronto, established in 1953. CMHA Toronto is committed to providing services and supports for individuals experiencing mental health issues in the city of Toronto. CMHA Toronto supports individuals’ mental health recovery through a broad range of services in the community as well as a variety of social, educational, specialized and internal programs. We serve all members of our diverse community, including those of different race, culture, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability and age. Our goal is to support the resilience and recovery of individuals experiencing mental health issues by helping them to live in the community in clean, safe, affordable accommodation; work in the community in paid employment or volunteer activities; and belong in the community as engaged, valued and contributing members. We know that a place to live, meaningful work and a caring community are integral to recovery. 416-789-7957
CAMH Centre for Addiction and Mental Health www.camh.ca 250 College Street, Toronto The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health is a psychiatric teaching hospital located in Toronto and ten community locations throughout the province of Ontario, Canada. CAMH's 24/7 Psychiatric Emergency Department provides 24 hours/7 days per week emergency service for adults with mental health and substance issues. Program provides emergency mental health assessments and stabilization for adults 16 and over.
COVENANT HOUSE is the largest agency in Canada serving youth who are homeless, trafficked or at risk. Covenant House is here for youth in crisis and homeless youth, ages 16 to 24. If you have no safe place to stay, we are here for you. Youth who stay with us come from many different backgrounds. We welcome everyone regardless of race, religion, gender identity or sexual orientation. We are more than just a place to stay. Our caring staff get to know you and give you the help you need. Our programs give you the tools and skills to improve your life and build a future. As a leader in the sector, we advocate so that all youth can have lives free from homelessness and trafficking. Our comprehensive youth-driven programming is centred on unconditional love, absolute respect and relentless engagement. If you are a youth in need of shelter or support: Call us at (416) 593-4849 (available 24-7) or toll-free at 1-800-435-7308 Visit us at 20 Gerrard St. East, open 24-7 https://covenanthousetoronto.ca/get-help/
DISTRESS CENTRE: 416-408-HELP (4357) offers access to emotional support from the safety and security of the closest telephone. Callers can express their thoughts and feelings in confidence. Callers’ issues can include problems related to domestic violence, social isolation, suicide, addictions, mental and physical health concerns. The Distress Centre offers emotional support, crisis intervention, suicide prevention and linkage to emergency help when necessary.
DRUG REHAB.COM Some people who suffer from PTSD turn to drugs and alcohol to self-medicate. Our organization works to spread awareness of this issue and to be an informational resource for those impacted by alcohol and drug dependence. drugrehab.com/co-occurring-disorder/ptsd/
DURHAM CRISIS AND MENTAL HEALTH LINE: 905 666-0483
GEORGE HULL CENTRE for Children and Families
The George Hull Centre is for children and youth from 0 to 18 years of age and their families. The Centre provides professional consultation, support and family treatment for a broad range of problems affecting the mental health of children and youth.
www.georgehullcentre.com 416 622-8833
GERSTEIN CENTRE: (416) 929-5200 provides crisis intervention to adults, living in the City of Toronto, who experience mental health problems. The service has three aspects; telephone support, community visits and a ten-bed, short-stay residence. All three aspects of the service are accessed through the crisis line. https://gersteincentre.org
HOPE for WELLNESS help line 1800 242 3310
Experienced and culturally competent counsellors for Indigenous peoples seeking crisis support. Telephone counselling available in English, French, Cree, Ojibway and Inuktitut.
24 hours, 7 days a week
KIDS HELP PHONE: 1-800-668-6868 is a free, anonymous and confidential phone and on-line professional counselling service for youth. Big or small concerns. 24/7. 365 days a year. https://kidshelpphone.ca/
LGBT Youth Line 1 800 268 9688
Peer support phone line for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual, 2-spirited, queer and questioning youth
LINK TORONTO SAFE PET Many survivors of intimate partner violence will not leave their abuser if they cannot take their pet(s) with them to safety. Our SafePet program removes a significant barrier for these women and men: we care for their pet(s) until the survivor is stabilized and safe. For survivors who are unable to find a trusted family member, friend, or co-worker, to care for their pet(s), SafePet can literally save lives. https://www.linktoronto.org/safepet
OAKVILLE DISTRESS CENTRE: 905 849-4541 for residents of Halton Region (Burlington, Halton Hills, Milton and Oakville)
OPUS HEALTH TREATMENT PROGRAM (USA) (949) 617 0905 “Dual diagnosis” refers to someone who has both a substance use disorder (alcohol or drug-related) and a mental health disorder at the same time. For instance, an individual with alcohol use disorder and major depressive disorder at the same time has a dual diagnosis. Having a dual diagnosis may also be referred to as having “co-occurring disorders,” or “comorbid disorders.” It is common for people with a substance use disorder to also have a co-occurring mental disorder, and vice versa. Having a dual diagnosis can make diagnosis and treatment more difficult. Many symptoms of substance use disorders and mental disorders overlap, and one disorder can worsen the symptoms of the other. Additionally, both disorders must be effectively treated, otherwise one’s recovery may be jeopardized. Opus offers many different treatment programs. https://opustreatment.com/dual-diagnosis-signs-symptoms-treatments/
PTSD Association of Canada http://www.ptsdassociation.comThe PTSD Association of Canada is a not for profit organization that exists to help those experiencing post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), those at risk for PTSD and those who care for traumatized individuals, as well as their families, friends and fellow workers and medical community.
REHAB SPOT (USA) (888) 470-0876 https://www.rehabspot.com/treatment/clinical/Trauma-resolution/Trauma resolution is critical to addiction treatment. Trauma is classified as a distressing or disturbing experience which can have major impacts on one’s wellbeing. The result of traumatic events can stifle one’s sense of peace or self, cause them to distrust others, numb emotions, or feel disconnected. While trauma from childhood experiences is often especially damaging, it can happen at any point during a lifetime. Identifying trauma in addiction treatment creates healing and freedom. When those in recovery understand the sources of their stress and trauma, they are better equipped to stay sober. Many different treatment programs are available.
SCARBOROUGH HOSPITAL MOBILE CRISIS UNIT: 416-495-2891 provides Telephone Crisis Response and community crisis response to individuals over 16 years of age who are experiencing a mental health crisis in Scarborough and East York.
SCHIZOPHRENIA SOCIETY of CANADA
www.schizophrenia.ca
SENIORS SAFETY HELPLINE – a 24 hour crisis and support line for seniors in Ontario who have experienced any type of abuse and neglect. Call 1-866-299-1011
SHEENA'S PLACE Support for Eating disorders 416-927-8900 https://sheenasplace.org/
At Sheena’s Place, we offer hope and support to anyone 17+ affected by an eating disorder, as well as their families and friends, by providing a wide range of professionally facilitated support groups and services, completely free of charge. We are committed to inspiring hope, reducing stigma, raising awareness and offering meaningful help and information at all stages of recovery. You do not need a referral to join our groups. And we will always respect your need and desire for confidentiality.
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA SUNRISE MENTAL HEALTH RECOVERY CENTRE (USA) - ADHD and Addiction (866) 523-2250 https://socalsunrisemh.com/adhd-and-addiction/ Individuals with ADHD tend to be overly active, have trouble concentrating, and become bored easily. Oftentimes, people who suffer from ADHD are more likely to develop a substance abuse disorder to cope with the symptoms of ADHD. These disorders combined commonly provoke a cycle of addiction that can be difficult to break without serious treatment.
SPECTRA HELPLINE: 416 920-0497 or 905 459-7777 for Brampton and Mississauga residents
TTY: 905 278-4890; Languages: English, Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu, Spanish, Portuguese
SUICIDAL?
www.suicide.org
1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
or
1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
or
Text Telephone:
1-800-799-4TTY (1-800-799-4889)
Military Veterans Suicide Hotline:
1-800-273-TALK (Press 1)
Suicide Hotline in Spanish:
1-800-273-TALK (Press 2)
LGBT Youth Suicide Hotline:
1-866-4-U-TREVOR
SUICIDE HELPLINE Need Help - Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention
https://suicideprevention.ca/need-help/
There are many crisis centres available 24 hours a day to talk to you. ... chemical dependency, and other disorders produce profound emotional distress.
SUICIDE ACTION MONTRÉAL ( in French)
UNE LIGNE DE VIE
1·866·277·3553 1·866·APPELLE) https://suicideactionmontreal.org/
USA Suicide Hotlines
International Suicide Hotlines
TALK 4 HEALING – a 24/7 line for help, support and resources for Indigenous women, by Indigenous women all across Ontario. Available in 14 Indigenous languages. Call 1-855-554-4325
THERAPEUTIC PAWS OF CANADA – PET THERAPY Pet Therapy is a work of the heart. It fosters support, companionship and the unique kind of bond that only pets can bring. Our pet therapy team visits hundreds of adults and children in communities across Canada. Many of our clients would lead lonely, stressful lives were it not for their weekly pet visits. We visit hospitals, schools, libraries, long-term care centres and retirement residences. www.tpoc.ca 1 -613-632-6502
TORONTO EMERGENCY CENTRAL INTAKE FOR SHELTERS
24 hours, 7 days a week
(416) 338 4766
TORONTO SENIORS HELPLINE: 416-217-2077 is a specialized service for seniors in Toronto which provides assistance in stabilizing age-related mental health and addiction crises, risk and safety assessments, immediate referrals to community mobile crisis units, and support for families and caregivers
TORONTO RAPE CRISIS CENTRE: 416-597-8808 is a grassroots collective working towards a violence-free world by providing anti-oppressive, feminist peer support to survivors of sexual violence through support, education and activism. Callers can be anyone who has been raped, sexually assaulted or abused, women who have had unwanted sexual touching, incest survivors and friends or family.
WELLNESS TOGETHER CANADA - For mental health and substance use support, visit ca.portal.gs Need immediate support? Text WELLNESS to 741741
WOMEN'S COLLEGE HOSPITAL - Trauma Therapy Program http://www.womenscollegehospital.ca/programs-and-services/mental-health/trauma-therapy-program/< 416-323-6230 The Trauma Therapy Program is a SPECIALIZED TRAUMA FOCUSED THERAPY service for persons with childhood histories of trauma. The program offers confidential, time-limited and primarily group-based psychotherapy to adults who have experienced childhood interpersonal trauma including physical, sexual, emotional abuse and/or neglect that occurred between the ages of 0-18. The program fees are covered by OHIP and service are available between the hours of 9am-5pm. We do not provide crisis services or long-term therapy.
YORK SUPPORT SERVICES NETWORK: 1-855-310-COPE (2673) 1-866-323-7785 (TTY) If you, or someone you care about, are depressed, distressed, lonely, anxious, scared or angry, you can call York Support Services 24/7. They have been serving York Region for over 15 years and have now expanded their telephone support to include North York.
YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH CANADA ymhc.ngo Youth Voices, Youth Hope
Youth Mental Health Canada is a grassroots, youth-driven and led non-profit organization focused on education and advocacy for youth mental health change.
We advocate for greater funding of publicly funded, culturally sensitive, needs-based, innovative supports and services in healthcare and education. +1 (647)952-YMHC
YOUTHDALE'S CRISIS SUPPORT TEAM: (416) 363-9990 assesses each child’s risk and mental status through telephone interviews and if required, Mobile Response. This assessment will involve the parent or guardian and the professionals caring for the child. A Youthdale child psychiatrist is available to consult with the Crisis Support Team at all times. Any parent or legal guardian in Ontario can call the Youthdale Psychiatric Crisis Services and get immediate access to trained professionals 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Emergency Shelters Toronto:
CENTRAL INTAKE: 416-338-4766; Toll Free 1-877-338-3398
STREETS TO HOMES ASSESSMENT AND REFERRAL CENTRE (129 Peter Street): 416-392-0090 Walk in referral to emergency shelter and street respite.
If you are looking for Information & Referral services in Ontario:
ConnexOntario offers province-wide information and referral services for those experiencing mental health issues, drug or alcohol addiction, or problem gambling. You can visit their website at: www.connexontario.ca or you can call the following number which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 1-866-531-2600.