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Support Resources
People sometimes don’t seek out help for themselves because they: don’t know what resources exist, are overwhelmed by the number of different resources out there, they don’t believe the resources are meant for their use, don’t know what to expect, or aren’t able to get help because their struggle is too overwhelming.
No matter what the reason, your role as a support is to help them connect to resources and navigate the process. This could look like helping them find the right resource, talking openly about your own experiences with seeking support, helping them take the first step, or even offering to drive them to their first appointment.
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Call Here to Find Support
211
Call or Text- 211
Live Chat Online - 211.ca
Online Resources – 211.ca
211 is an information and referral system that helps connect people to a full range of community, social, health, and government services. It is a free and confidential service that can be accessed 24 hours a day, in more than 150 languages by phone, chat, text, and web.
211 operators are highly trained to assess your need and refer you to the most appropriate services, whether that be health or social services like mental health support, food, and shelter… or just helping you find where you can volunteer, donate, or receive financial assistance for rent/utility or turn for legal support.
Though 211 is a Canada-wide service, when you call it goes to your local chapter, meaning you’re talking with someone who knows the supports and services of your province or territory.
*If you are looking for Newcomer, LGBTQ2+, or other specific resources, 211 will be able to direct you to the right services.
Crisis Services
Distress Centre Calgary
Call or Text – 403-266-HELP (4357)
Online Chat - www.distresscentre.com
Distress Centre Calgary (DCC) provides 24-hour crisis support, professional counselling, youth peer support and referrals through 211 and our programs at SORCe – all at no cost. Phone support is offered in over 200 languages.
The Distress Centre is a place to turn in times of crisis. They don’t define crisis. They don’t judge. Anyone can call, text, or chat anytime, day or night.
Crisis Services Canada
Text - 45645 (4pm - Midnight ET)
Phone - 1-833-456-4566 (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
Website - www.crisisservicescanada.ca
*For residents of Quebec, call 1 866 APPELLE (1.866.277.3553)
Crisis Services Canada (CSC) is a Canada-wide network of existing distress, crisis and suicide prevention line services. This service is for any person living in Canada who is affected by suicide, whether for yourself or worried about someone else. This is the number to call. They deal with each call in the most caring and least intrusive manner possible.
Anyone can have suicidal thoughts for a number of reasons. CSC offers a barrier-free, non-judgmental space with supportive and responsive responders. They are here so anyone thinking about suicide feels comfortable enough to reach out for support.
Indigenous-Specific Resources
The Hope for Wellness Help Line
Phone - 1-855-242-3310
Live Chat Online - www.hopeforwellness.ca
The Hope for Wellness Help Line offers immediate help to all indigenous peoples across Canada, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is available in English, French and upon request in Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut. Online chat services are available in English and French, with expansion to Indigenous languages currently being explored.
Experienced and culturally competent Help Line counsellors can help if you are distressed, having strong emotional reactions, are triggered by painful memories, or just want to talk. If asked, counsellors can also work with you to find other wellness supports that are available near you.
*Former Residential School students can call 1-866-925-4419 for emotional crisis referral services and information on other health supports from the Government of Canada.
Build Your Skills
CMHA Calgary Recovery College
cmha.calgary.ab.ca/education-training/recovery-college
Recovery College uses an educational-based approach to help people recognize and develop their own resourcefulness and awareness to support themselves or their loved one's recovery journey. Everyone is welcome to attend our free courses. No experience is required and with lots of courses to choose from, there is something for everyone. The group education courses are for those 16 years and older. The focus of our courses are on building resiliency, hope, and self-care. They are designed and delivered in partnership with our Peer Supporters. We deliver more than 45 courses through registered and drop-in courses (currently all virtual). There is no referral, eligibility, or pre-requisites to participate.
CMHA Calgary School of Peer Support
cmha.calgary.ab.ca/education-training/become-a-peer
Through the School of Peer Support, CMHA Calgary provides 83 hours of in-class training, 50 hours of unpaid practicum experience, and opportunities to connect to the Peer Supporter Community of Practice. Our students learn about peer support from a formalized, but non-clinical lens, and explore using their newly gained skills to support others one-on-one, through groups, as ambassadors, or as educators.
Connections First
Natural supports are mutually beneficial relationships that include close connections, such as family and friends, and broader connections such as neighbours, coaches, community organizations and local businesses.
Connections First is focused on understanding how natural supports can influence the well-being of children, youth and the communities in which they live, and sharing learning and resources about the importance of natural supports.
Natural Supports Simulation
The Natural Supports Simulation is an online interactive experience that raises awareness for the Natural Support role by building skills and confidence. This online tool helps adults learn to actively listen, validate emotions, remove stigma around mental health, and engage in supportive conversations with children and youth.
