Mental health and addiction support resources over the holidays

21 December 2023

It’s ok to not feel merry and bright

Penetanguishene, Ontario – The most wonderful time of year can also be the hardest time of year. With support, this holiday season can feel a little better.

If you or someone you know requires immediate support for a mental health or addiction concern, there are resources/services available to you 24/7.

For immediate support, available 24/7:

  • Call 9-8-8: Canada’s new helpline for anyone who is thinking about suicide or who is worried about someone they know
  • Call 705-728-5044 or 1-888-893-8333 (toll-free): The Canadian Mental Health Association's Mental Health Crisis and Information Line
  • Kids Help Phone: Text 686868 or call 1-800-668-6868
  • Call 8-1-1: Health811 connects you to health care resources
  • Call 9-1-1 or visit your closest Emergency Department

For non-urgent support, please consider:

About Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care

Waypoint is a fully accredited academic and teaching hospital providing specialty mental health and addiction services and geriatric services for Simcoe County, Muskoka and central Ontario, as well as forensic mental health services for all of Ontario. Our main campus, which includes the Waypoint Research Institute, is located on the beautiful shores of Georgian Bay in the Town of Penetanguishene. Waypoint is a proud partner in the Community Health Hub in Midland and has additional locations in Midland, Barrie and Huntsville. As a regional provider of specialized services, the hospital has an extensive range of acute and longer-term psychiatric inpatient, outpatient, and community-based programs to meet the diverse needs of people of all ages, cultures and identities. Our team of forward-thinking experts provides leadership to the broader healthcare system. We harness partnership, innovation and research to advance understanding of mental health and addictions and improve lives locally and around the world.

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