Getting better

Depression, anxiety, or a bout of the blues: Resources for the help you need

Getting better

Depression, anxiety, or a bout of the blues: Resources for the help you need

Not feeling yourself? Notice a friend is struggling? Wondering where or who to look to for information and help? 

Below are a few resources that you can turn to, whether it’s to talk about what you’re going through, get some guidance on the next steps to take, or find more concrete solutions.

At school

You can start by talking to teachers or school staff. In Quebec, if you are 14 or over, you have the right to secrecy in your dealings with certain health care professionals. If you’re unsure, ask. They can provide answers to help you make sense of things. And if you’re reluctant to go talk to someone on your own, you can always ask a friend or loved one to go with you. The list below may vary from one school to the next, so don’t hesitate to ask your school for more information. 

Special education instructor

Works with students who have trouble adapting due to a mental health problem, behavioural disorder, or developmental disorder.

Psychoeducator

Helps students with adaptation or behaviour issues to develop their independence and better integrate into their social circles.

School psychologist

An expert in all things related to mental health, behaviour, and emotions, the school psychologist can:
• Assess how you’re feeling
• Suggest treatment (psychotherapy, etc.)
• Point you to other resources, if necessary

Occupational therapist

Helps those who have trouble with their posture and fine motor skills, but can also provide tools to deal with anxiety.

Social worker

Works with families who are having trouble dealing with their teen’s behaviour (violence, delinquency, etc.). A social worker can also help you figure out what’s going on in your own life and guide you through the social services and health care system.

School Nurse

Offers prevention, awareness-raising and support in matters of health and healthy lifestyles.

Outside of school

📱 Info-Santé 811

A nurse will ask you questions about your situation and help direct you to the appropriate resource in your area.

👩🏾‍⚕️ Your family doctor

Your doctor can do an initial assessment of your situation and determine whether your current problems may be related to a physical illness. They can then direct you to the appropriate resource.

🏥 Your local Integrated Health and Social Services Centre (CISSS)

or your Integrated University Health and Social Services Centre (CIUSSS) – Directory
No matter the reason behind your situation, healthcare professionals such as social workers are there to help. They can steer you toward the services and resources that best meet your situation and needs.

IMPORTANT!

If you (or a friend) are in a crisis situation and at risk of self-harm:

  • Call 911
  • Go to the nearest emergency room
  • Call the Suicide Prevention Centre of Montreal at 1-866-277-3553 and your call will be automatically directed to a local resource (free and confidential service available 24/7)

REMOTE

Need to talk to someone, but not quite ready to meet with a health care professional?

There are various services and crisis hotlines out there with people standing by to listen, provide guidance, and help steer you in the right direction.

Kids Help Phone

Free, confidential, and available 24/7
Phone: 1-800-668-6868
kidshelpphone.ca

Tel-jeunes

Free, confidential, and available 24/7
Phone: 1-800-263-2266
Text: 514-600-1002
teljeunes.com

Relief

Help, information, and reference line
Phone: 1-866-738-4873
relief.ca

Suicide.ca

Free, confidential, and available 24/7
Phone: 1-866-277-3553
suicide.ca

Mental Health support: more helplines and resources