There are many different kinds of help for children, youth or families coping with mental health concerns.
Child and youth mental health services
Publicly funded services usually require a referral…and a great deal of patience. Children, youth and families must wait for many of these services. Generally, these services are high quality, based on evidence and time-limited. Connections between services can be challenging, especially when young people transition to adult services at age 18.
Private services are readily available and flexible, but are often very expensive, even for those fortunate to have private insurance. Approaches and use of current evidence may vary widely.
Community supports for children, youth and families
Supports, such as workshops or groups, may be provided by trained staff in funded agencies and organizations or the private sector. Not all supports are specific to mental health issues, but are often helpful with other challenges children, youth and families face.
Other supports are available through not-for-profit organizations, charities or groups connected to various communities. These supports may range from impromptu coffee hours to highly organized groups with regular meetings.
If you are looking for mental health help or support, here are a few places to get you started.
Children & Youth (0-18)
In Hamilton:
- Call Contact Hamilton
- Visit a Check It Out drop-in session (0-6 years)
In general:
- Talk to your family doctor
- Ask at school
- Ask at daycare
- Visit CMHO to search providers listed there
- Contact a local PCMH support group
Transition Aged Youth (16+)
In Hamilton:
- Call Contact Hamilton
- #ReachOut to Youth Wellness Centre
- Visit a drop-in counselling session
In general:
- BounceBack (online peer support – 15-18 and 19+)
- Talk to a health care provider
- Ask at school
Community Supports
In Hamilton:
- Community Education Service (CES)
- Parents for Children’s Mental Health – Hamilton Chapter
- Hamilton Family Health Team
- McMaster Family Health Team
- Contact Hamilton
In general:
- eMentalHealth
- Big White Wall (online peer support)
- BounceBack (online peer support – 15-18 and 19+)
- School, college, university
- Family, friends, neighbours