A mental health crisis for you or someone you care about can feel frightening, overwhelming, or difficult to manage alone. Knowing where to turn can help you take the next step toward immediate safety and support. The appropriate resource depends on the urgency of the situation.
Immediate danger: Call 911 or go to an emergency department
Call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department when you or someone else is in immediate danger. This may include a suicide attempt, an immediate intention to cause harm, an overdose, severe confusion or disorientation, or being unable to remain safe.
Do not wait for a return call from the practitioner or for a scheduled appointment when immediate safety is at risk.
Suicidal thoughts or concern about someone: Call or text 9-8-8
If you are thinking about suicide, feeling unsure about your ability to stay safe, or worried that someone else may be suicidal, call or text 9-8-8.
The 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline is available throughout Canada, 24 hours a day, every day of the year. You do not need to be certain that the situation is serious enough before reaching out. A crisis responder can listen, help you consider your immediate safety, and support you in deciding what to do next.
Urgent emotional distress: Contact an Ontario crisis service
When someone is experiencing significant emotional distress but is not in immediate danger, a local mental health crisis service may provide telephone support, crisis assessment, safety planning, referrals, or connection to a mobile crisis team.
To find services in your community:
ConnexOntario
Call 1-866-531-2600 for free and confidential information about mental health, substance use, gambling, and related services available in Ontario.
211 Ontario
Call 211 to be connected with local crisis lines, community mental health programs, and other social and health services in your area.
Kids Help Phone
Call 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868 and additional information and resources can be located at kidshelpphone.ca
Please do not manage a crisis alone
Reaching out for crisis support is an appropriate response when distress has become difficult to contain. You do not need to have the right words or fully understand what is happening before making the call.
This student psychotherapy practice does not provide emergency care or 24-hour crisis support. If you are in immediate danger or unable to remain safe, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.