Today is Bell Let’s Talk Day, and this year’s campaign focuses on supporting youth mental health.
All money raised through a text-to-donate campaign will raise funds for six youth mental health providers across the country.
The provincial government has a number of resources available to help young people with questions and struggling with their mental health.
Canadians are being encouraged to donate $5 dollars by text, while Bell will match all donations up to a total of $1 million.
Mental Health a Priority for RNC
Mental health has been a focus for many organizations over the last few years, and the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary is no exception.
The RNC has been taking greater measures in recent years to recognize and support the mental health needs of its members.
RNC Constable James Cadigan says it’s something they’ve been addressing with a more pro-active approach, not only within the police service itself, but in its work in the community as well.
He says they’re recognizing the challenges, not just for the workplace, but throughout the community with their response to calls. A Mobile Mental Health Crisis Response Team was launched in 2018.
He says the Mobile Mental Health Crisis Response Team is made up of an officer with specific mental health training coupled with a health professional and social worker, all of whom are in plain clothes and in an unmarked vehicle to respond to those suffering a mental health crisis.
Information for those in need:
811 – Provincial HealthLine: 24/7 mental health and addictions advice and support by trained crisis interveners.
Kids Help Phone: Call 1-800-668-6868 for telephone and text support for children and youth, including professional counselling, information and referrals, available 24/7.
Lifewise Warm Line: Call 1-855-753-2560 for support and referral service provided by trained peer support workers.
Doorways Mental Health Walk-in Clinics: Access rapid, same-day, walk-in, or phone service. Call 811 to find a location near you.
Bridge the gapp: For online support and more information about programs and services near you, visit Bridge the gapp, for a full suite of e-mental health and addictions services.
Strongest Families Institute: Call 1-866-470-7111 or visit www.strongestfamilies.com for telephone and/or online mental health support for children and youth, ages 3-17 years old, their families, and adults.988 – Federal Suicide and Crisis Line.
Hope for Wellness Helpline: Call the toll-free helpline at 1-855-242-3310, or chat online at www.hopeforwellness.ca for immediate support and crisis intervention for Indigenous people across Canada.
