Community mental health resources available for post-secondary students

Being a post-secondary student can be tough. The struggle to maintain academics, relationships, finances and other challenges can contribute to stress and low mood. That’s why the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Peel Dufferin  is reminding post-secondary students of a number of mental health programs, services and supports available in their community.

CMHA Peel Dufferin offers:

• Brief Counselling Services – Mental Health Counselling: CMHA Peel Dufferin offers free Brief Mental Health Counselling services. Our program follows a brief counselling model that offers an immediate opportunity for therapeutic conversation within 1-2 sessions. Our aim is to focus on your presenting needs and strengths and work hard with you to find solutions and leave with a plan. CMHA Peel Dufferin offers a Brief Services Substance Use Program at no cost to those that are seeking assistance with cutting down or stopping substance use and “addictive” behaviours. Anyone age 16 years or older, presenting with symptoms of mental illness and emotional difficulties and who reside within the communities of the Central West LHIN could benefit from this program.
• Brief Counselling Services – Substance Use: CMHA Peel Dufferin offers a Brief Services Substance Use Program at no cost to those that are seeking assistance with cutting down or stopping substance use and “addictive” behaviours. People 16 years of age or older presenting with mental health and/or substance use or internet/gaming concerns – needs may also be related to finances, food security, housing, and interpersonal relationships and who reside within the communities of the Central West LHIN.
• 24.7 Crisis Support Peel Dufferin: CMHA Peel Dufferin offers timely response to adults (16 years and over) experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis; individuals having difficulties coping; and family, caregivers and friends needing support. Our team of registered health professionals may also visit you where you are to provide support. 24.7 Crisis Support Peel Dufferin professionals will speak to you by phone to provide support and help you make a plan to stay safe.Our crisis team may include mental health workers, nurses, social workers and specially trained plain-clothes police officers. We may also provide ongoing telephone support and connect you to others who can help.
• Access: Intake, Information & Referrals: Everyone has ups and downs in their everyday life, but if your mental health is affecting your daily life or getting in the way of your work or relationships, we an help. If you are worried about a friend or family member’s mental health or substance use, we can help. Call 905-451-2123. Walk-Ins Welcome: 314-7700 Hurontario Street, Brampton

Students can contact Good2Talk, a free, confidential helpline for post-secondary students in Ontario. By calling Good2Talk, students can receive information and referrals about services and supports for mental health, addictions and well-being on and off campus or speak anonymously with a professional counsellor. Good2Talk is available by phone at 1-866-925-5454.
ConnexOntario also offers a free and confidential Mental Health Helpline. This province-wide, mental health information and referral service is available 24/7. Students can call 1-866-531-2600, chat online, or email for support. For more information, visit mentalhealthhelpline.ca.