Mental Health

Mental health is an important part of our health. Positive mental health is the core for a person's well-being. Good mental health allows a person to reach their potential and deal with normal stresses of life.

No matter our age, we all get stressed. Stress affects our mental health. Positive coping skills can help improve our mental health. Through positive coping skills a person can build resilience. Resilience allows a person to better handle the normal stresses of life and overcome challenging situations.

Do not feel ashamed of speaking to someone about mental health concerns and seeking help. It is important to seek help early.

It is important to speak to one another about mental health - this can help us increase dialogue, knowledge, and help-seeking, while reducing stigma. To learn more about how to talk about mental health, check out have THAT talk.

If you are concerned about your mental health or someone else, speak to your health care provider or check out the Mental Health, Addictions and Substance Use Health Resource List. For information about mental health about your infant, child or youth, please visit our Parenting in Ottawa mental health page.

If you or someone requires support related to suicide, please contact the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline (24 hours a day/7 days a week, bilingual) or the Distress Centre Ottawa and Region (24 hours a day/7 days a week, bilingual) at 613-238-3311.

If you have a youth in crisis, contact the Youth Services 24/7 Crisis Line (24 hours a day/7 days a week) at 613-260-2360 of if outside Ottawa toll-free at 1-877-377-7775.

If you, or someone is in crisis (a time of intense difficulty) or you are concerned for your immediate safety and wellbeing please call 9-1-1.