The global COVID-19 pandemic has pulled a lot of focus to the importance of health in the last year. We’re all taking steps to make sure that we stay as safe and healthy as possible as a way to stop the spread of this vicious illness. And though it is so very important to obey these protocols, that doesn’t stop the strain they can take on a person’s mental health. Not to mention, the emotional distress that just living through a pandemic can cause as well.
It’s important to get the necessary help when dealing with a mental health crisis, but sometimes it can feel like it’s impossible to find the right resources. There are many places that offer help and support for people dealing with a mental illness both in the Valley and online. If you’re experiencing mental illness and need professional help, please look into the following options.
The CDC du Haut Saint-Laurent, an affiliation of community organizations, recently posted a list of resources that are easily accessible to Valley residents (at www.cdchsl.org, Latest Info: Together Against Psychological Distress). http://www.cdchsl.org/mental-health-support-haut-saint-laurent/?lang=en
For youths, the Huntingdon CJE (Carrefour jeunesse-emploi, 450-264-5858) offers services for mental health in addition to job-search help and the like. There is also Tel-jeunes, a province-wide 24/7 hotline that young people can call for absolutely anything: the number is 800-263-2266 or, for texting, 514-600-1002.
Interligne is a free, confidential service offered to those who are experiencing distress around their sexuality or gender. This is another service that offers support 24/7 through call, text, online chatting and email. The phone number is 888-505-1010.
The CLSC in Huntingdon (450-829-2321) is also a great starting point to contact to be referred to services based on what you need and your current situation. If you’d prefer just to have a chat over the phone about what you’re dealing with, Tel-Aide (Suroit region number: 450-377-0600) is a good place to call for coping with stress, anxiety, loss and anything else you may be struggling with.
One resource that has been beneficial for many is AMI-Quebec. Based in Montreal but also offering programs and support to people beyond the city, it helps individuals and families cope with the effects and repercussions of mental illness. Because of COVID-19, it is operating mainly through the phone or online. Its services are free and provide immediate short-term help while helping to set you up with long-term options. AMI-Québec operates Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and can be reached by phone at 514-486-1448 or, if that is a long-distance call, toll-free at 1-877-303-0264. The website is amiquebec.org.
Reaching out to any of these organizations is a good first step.