Taking Care of Your Mental Health

If you need immediate help call 9-1-1.

If you or someone you know are in crisis call:

  • COAST at 905-972-8338
  • KIDS HELP PHONE at 1-800-668-6868

Non-crisis mental health supports:

  • Canadian Mental Health Association Hamilton (over 18): 905-521-0090
  • Contact Hamilton (under 18): 905-570-8888

  • Indigenous Call Centre (Hamilton): (905) 549-4884

 

We are all in this together but we each experience it differently. Have you checked in with yourself lately? In these uncertain times feelings of concern, stress, and anxiety are normal. Take one step at a time and try these positive coping tips. We don’t just have to survive this, we can find moments to thrive. Reach out if you need help.

Take it one step at a time

It is okay to take breaks from what you are doing. Allow yourself to slow down.

  • Take a deep breath
  • Imagine yourself in a peaceful place
  • Think about something that makes you happy
  • Laugh
  • Enjoy fresh air, get outside, go for a walk

Check-in with yourself

Allow yourself to stop and think about how you are feeling. Some questions to ask yourself are:

  • How am I feeling?
  • Do I feel like myself?
  • Am I taking care of myself?
  • Am I feeling easily frustrated?
  • Am I staying connected with others?

If you feel you may need some extra help, scroll down this page for a list of free mental health resources and supports. Positive coping strategies can also help you take care of your mental health. Try these tips below.

Take care of yourself

Take one step at a time. Small steps can make a difference. Breaking things down into smaller pieces can help.

  • Think about the small things you have done and take pride
  • Journal your thoughts and feelings
  • Unplug from social media
  • Protect yourself by following Public Health advice
  • Ask for help if needed

Support your mental, emotional, and physical health

  • Be kind to yourself
  • Create a routine
  • Move your body
  • Get outside
  • Get rest and sleep
  • Avoid using alcohol or other substances to relieve stress

Mental Health Resources and Supports

The challenges Hamilton residents face because of COVID-19 are often experienced differently depending on factors our social identities such as race, Indigenous identity, age, work status, gender identity, sexual orientation and disability.

Resources to support you and your loved ones to cope with stress and anxiety during COVID-19:

  • BounceBack: 1-866-345-0224. Free program that provides guided mental health self-help supports for those above age 15 using workbooks, online videos and phone coaching.
  • ConnexOntario: 1-866-531-2600. Mental health, addictions and problem gambling support for adults and frontline workers.
  • COAST: 905-972-8338. Mental health support for those in crisis.
  • Barrett Centre for Crisis Support: 905-529-7878 or toll-free 1-844-777-3571. 24 hour mental health crisis line.
  • Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT) available through MindBeacon or Morneau Shepell: free online cognitive behavioural therapy to develop skills and strategies to address symptoms of mild to moderate anxiety and/or depression, and help cope with situations related to COVID-19, such as isolation, pressure caring for family and community members, information overload and stress. Online support by a therapist.
  • Wellness Together Canada portal: free online resources, tools, apps and connections to trained volunteers and qualified mental health professionals
  • Mental Health Services in Hamilton: listing of mental health services and supports in Hamilton.
  • 50 Ways to Stay Mentally Healthy During COVID-19
  • Dealing With Isolation: information on preparing ahead, self-care, keeping busy, social interaction and supporting a loved one in isolation.
  • COVID-19 Isolation Relief Support Line: 289-804-2343. Call or text seven days a week (Tuesdays are text-only) between 6 and 9 pm.
  • Contact Hamilton: 905-570-8888. Connects those under age 18 with local mental health services.
  • Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868. 24/7 mental health support by phone and text for children and youth under age 18 and under.
  • Good2Talk: 1-866-925-5454. Confidential phone and text support for post-secondary students.
  • Parenting During COVID-19: tips for supporting and engaging with your children as well as self-care tips for parents and caregivers.
  • Talking To Your Child About COVID-19: tips to address anxiety in a reassuring way for children.
  • Coping With COVID-19: guide to help children cope through self-regulation.

If you have concerns about the safety or well-being of a child or youth under 18 years old or if your family is in need of support contact:

  • Catholic Children’s Aid Society Of Hamilton: Phone 905-525-2012
  • Children’s Aid Society of Hamilton :Phone 905-522-1121
  • Emergency After-Hours: Phone 905-522-8053
  • For services in French (8:30 am to 4:30 pm): Phone 1-855-550-3571
  • Indigenous Call Centre:  905-549-4884, press 2. Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg culturally safe call centre that connects Indigenous residents in Hamilton to resources such as food supports and mental health supports.
  • De Dwa Da Dehs Nye>S / Aboriginal Health Centre: 905-544-4320 ext. 215. Mental wellness services by phone that are culturally appropriate and culturally safe for members of the urban Indigenous community.  
  • Hope for Wellness Helpline: 1-855-242-3310. Immediate mental health counselling and crisis intervention for Indigenous peoples by calling or using live web chat.
  • Talk 4 Healing: 1-855-554-4325. 24/7 support and resources for Indigenous women in 14 languages by calling or texting.
  • Mental Health & Wellness Tips: The Assembly of First Nations resources and tips for mental health and wellness during COVID-19.
  • Speqtrum Hamilton: weekly online check-ins and peer support sessions for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, age 29 and under, during COVID-19. 
  • LGBT Youth Line: peer support to LGBT youth, age 29 and under. Text and online chat.
  • CNIB: free virtual programs for those who are blind or partially sighted, their families, friends and caregivers. 
  • Surrey Place: supports for those with developmental disabilities and their families.
  • Canadian Association of Community Living: COVID-19 mental health resources for those with disabilities.

Call 9-1-1 if you need help right away and are in danger.

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