The foodservice industry is fast-paced and demanding, and it's important to recognize that mental health is just as critical as physical health. Whether you're an owner, manager, or frontline worker, your mental wellbeing matters. If you're facing challenges like stress, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or suicidal thoughts, there are resources available to help you navigate these tough times.
Below is a comprehensive guide to various Canadian organizations and helplines that offer support for mental health, depression, suicide awareness, substance abuse, anxiety, and more. Know that reaching out is a brave and important step toward healing and support.
National Helplines & Organizations
1. Crisis Services Canada
Provides 24/7 support for those in crisis, including suicide prevention and mental health support. You can text 741741 (anywhere in Canada) or phone them on 1-833-456-4566.
2. Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
Offers resources, programs, and support for mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance use. Local CMHA branches provide community-based services across the country.
3. 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline
Provides confidential suicide prevention services and support. Call or text them on 988 24/7.
4. Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC)
MHCC offers information and advocacy for mental health in the workplace, including the foodservice industry.
5. Drug Rehabilitation Centre
DRC is a completely free resource for drug and alcohol addiction in Canada. Contact them on 1-877-254-3348.
6. Mind The Bar Foundation
Provides information and resources for hospitality workers struggling with substance and alcohol abuse, depression, anxiety and workplace harassment.
7. Remise en Place
A non-profit organisation based in Montreal that provides help and support with addiction issues in the foodservice industry. Contact them at (514) 653-1451 or Instagram @remiseenplace.
8. Anxiety Canada
Supports individuals with anxiety disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder through education, resources, and programs.
Province-Specific Resources
Ontario
ConnexOntario
A confidential phone, live chat, email and texting service available 24/7, 365 days a year, that provides support and information about mental health, gambling and addiction services. For phone support call or text 1-866-531-2600.
British Columbia
1. The Crisis Centre of BC
Provides immediate access to free, non-judgemental support via phone or online services for mental health crises. Call 310-6789 or call/text 988.
2. British Columbia Mental Health and Substance Use Services (BCMHSUS)
Provides specialized education, treatment and health promotion.
Alberta
Alberta Health Services (AHS) Mental Health Help Line
A confidential, 24/7 service available 365 days a year, offering support, information, and referrals to Albertans facing mental health challenges. Contact them at 8773032642.
Québec
1. Tel-Aide Québec
A Montreal-based helpline for individuals in crisis, providing confidential emotional support. Call them on 418-686-2433 or 1-877-935-1101.
2. Info-Social 811
Quebec’s mental health support and crisis intervention service available by phone by dialling 811.
There are many resources available, and no one has to go through these challenges alone. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to seek support; help is just a phone call or click away.
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