With the introduction of new COVID restrictions in Alberta, combined with shorter days, cooler weather, and the start of the holiday season, many people may be feeling overwhelmed at the moment. So, in this blog post, I want to take a few minutes to highlight some free and/or low resources available to Albertans. Please share with your friends and family. You never know who may need them. Wishing you all a safe and peaceful holiday season. 

Calgary Distress Centre (24-hour crisis support; phone, text, and online chat) https://www.distresscentre.com

Edmonton 24 hour Distress Line (crisis support) https://edmonton.cmha.ca/programs-services/distress-line/

Eastside Community Mental Health Services (mobile family crisis support, mental health system navigation, walk-in counselling, e-therapy) https://www.woodshomes.ca/programs/eastside-community-mental-health-services/

Kids Help Phone (counselling, information, and referrals via text, phone, messenger, chat) https://kidshelpphone.ca/get-involved/our-impact/in-the-community/alberta

24-hour Pregnancy Helpline (peer counselling for unexpected pregnancy) https://www.pregcare.com

Child Abuse Hotline (to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect; 24-hours) http://canopysociety.org/child-abuse-hotline/?city=calgary

24-hour Family Violence Helpline (for those experiencing family violence and abuse – victim, friends, or family) https://www.calgarywomensshelter.com

YWCA 24-hour crisis line for women experiencing domestic abuse (support and options) https://www.ywcalgary.ca/programs/24-hour-crisis-line/

Canadian Mental Health Association Calgary Chapter (workshops and classes, groups, and one-on-one support) https://cmha.calgary.ab.ca

Alberta Addiction Helpline (24-hour support and referrals) https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/findhealth/Service.aspx?id=1008399

Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta (eating disorder support groups and education for clients and their families) https://edsna.ca

Mental Health Support via Calgary Urgent Care; available at Sheldon Chumir Health Centre and South Calgary Health Centre (8am-10pm each day; mental health assessment and support)

Click here for more information on counselling services at Monarch Psychology.