Need some support?
If you or someone you know is facing a mental health challenge, there is help available. If you have questions around mental health support, some of the FAQs and resources below may help. You can also make an appointment with your family doctor and/or reach out to your local CMHA branch.
I am feeling depressed. What should I do?
Depression is a common but serious mental health issue. Everyone feels down, low or moody now and then, but depression is more than simply ‘feeling down’. There are a number of symptoms, which may present differently in different people (which is why a professional evaluation is recommended). Depression will impact a person’s daily functioning and relationships.
A person experiencing depression might:
- Feel sad or anxious more than usual
- Feel worried, angry or upset a lot
- Have trouble coping with everyday activities, even minor ones
- Lose interest in things they enjoy doing
- Feel hopeless, worthless or guilty
- Have trouble sleeping or sleep more than usual
- Cry a lot
- Have low energy, or feel restless
- Want to eat more or less than usual
- Have trouble paying attention, concentrating or making decisions
- Think a lot about suicide, or death in general
If you think you may be experiencing depression, you're not alone. According to CMHA, major depression affects approximately 5.4% of the Canadian population.
It is also important to know that depression is treatable, and help is available.
Educating yourself is an important first step.
If you feel like you may have depression, a great next step would be to make an appointment with your family doctor to discuss how you’re feeling. Your doctor can give you some personalised advice, and if necessary, can help you to make an appointment with a psychologist or psychiatrist, discuss medication options if appropriate, or advise on lifestyle changes that can support you in your recovery.
If you’re in an emergency situation or need immediate assistance, call or text 9-8-8 - a 24/7, toll-free service available in both English and French.
How do I find a psychologist, and what can I expect?
Psychologists are trained to assess, diagnose and treat mental health challenges and disorders.
When a psychologist is employed by a public institution like a hospital, school or correctional facility, their services are covered by the public health system.
When a psychologist practices in the community, their services are typically not covered by public health insurance plans, however, they are usually covered by an extended health insurance plan you may have through work.
You can make an appointment with a psychologist in the community on your own without a doctor’s referral. To find a psychologist in your area go to https://cpa.ca/public/findingapsychologist/ or reach out to your local CMHA branch.
What else can I do?
I am feeling suicidal.
If you are having thoughts of ending your life, this can feel frightening, confusing and isolating. It’s really important that you speak to someone about what’s going on in your life and how you feel. If you're struggling to hold on to hope, or feeling overwhelmed, please remember that help is always available.
Reaching out is the first step. To talk to someone now, call or text 9-8-8.
