Talking to each other about mental health and addictions and knowing where to turn to get help, is critical.

There are many resources in our region today, and we continue to invest in community partners working on the ground delivering vital mental health services every day. In case you missed it: read our 2024 HRCIF Impact Report.

But there are two realities: 1. the mental health and addictions crisis continues across the country; and 2. a collaborative, long-term funding approach with all levels of government is still needed to ensure services are available to meet the needs of our growing community.

Here is a list of what is available to you right now in Halton. Share this list with family, friends, and your social networks.

Urgent and crisis support

• Call or text the National Suicide Crisis Helpline 988 toll-free anytime (support available 24/7).
• For children up to 18 years of age, contact Reach Out Centre for Kids (ROCK) (external link) - 905-878-9785 (24 hours).
• If 16 years or older, contact the Halton Regional Police Service Crisis Outreach and Support Team (external link) - 1-877-825-9011.

Programs

• BounceBack (external link)
  A guided self-help program for adults and youth aged 15 and over, BounceBack uses workbooks with online videos and phone coaching to provide mental health supports and services.
• Canadian Mental Health Association Halton Region Branch (CMHA) (external link)
  Supports clients and the community by phone. Call 289-291-5396 and you will be contacted by a counsellor within 24 business hours, Monday to Friday.
• ConnexOntario (external link)
  A mental health, addictions and problem gambling help line, ConnexOntario can connect you to local mental health and addictions services and supports. Call 1-866-531-2600.
• Distress Centre Halton (external link)
  Phone and online support for people in our community to better cope with crisis, loneliness and emotional stress. Oakville: 905-849-4541; Burlington: 905-681-1488; Halton Hills: 905-877-1211.
• STRIDE Employment Services (external link)
  A specialized mental health and addiction agency serving Halton and Peel regions and surrounding areas. Services include assisting individuals in gaining and maintaining meaningful employment through individualized programs, resources, and connections to supportive employers in our community.

Information to get you started

• Easy tips on how to build healthy habits and resilience to improve your everyday life, from our Halton Region Health team.
• Bell Lets Talk Conversation Guides to help you start safe conversations about mental health (external link).

We will continue to make mental health a priority and support easy access to the programs you need to live, grow and thrive in our community.