Mental Health Resources
Fear of the consequences of climate change can greatly affect the health and well-being of any individual.82 While it’s important to be aware of climate change and its effects, we’ve outlined some resources below to help support the mental health effects of climate change in response to eco-anxiety, ecological grief, and climate dread.
YOUTH IN BC CHAT | Online Chat
A service that offers one-on-one online chat and follow-up as needed, from 12 pm to 1 am daily. Youth in BC creates a safe, respectful place to access support and information or someone to listen in a judgment-free environment.
INDIGENOUS INITIATIVES NETWORK | Phone and Text
24/7 text line that gives Indigenous youth and adults the option of connecting with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis crisis responders when available.
- Simply text “First Nations” “Metis” or “Inuit” to 68 68 68 (youth) or 741 741 (adults), and individuals will be connected with a corresponding crisis responder.
- Call 1-800-668-6868.
KIDS HELP PHONE | Phone and Text
A toll-free, 24/7 phone counselling and referral service offers a safe, private, and non-judgmental space for youth.
- Connect with a trained volunteer Crisis Responder by calling 1-800-668-6868.
- Text CONNECT to 686868 for support with any issue. To stop a conversation at any time, reply with STOP.
HERE 2TALK | App and Phone
Here2Talk works specifically with post-secondary students to connect them with mental health support when needed. This service is free for students in post-secondary institutions within the province of BC and offers services through a downloadable app or by phone.
- This free app is available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play.
- For Canada-wide toll-free service: 1-877-857-3397
- For Canada-wide direct: 604-642-5212
- If you are accessing internationally: 1-604-642-5212
For a list of free, in-person service options, the Government of BC website provides community-based mental health support services at multiple locations throughout British Columbia. For additional help finding a child or youth mental health team in your area, simply dial 811 (HealthLink BC – free provincial health advice available in British Columbia)
EMERGENCY CONTACT SUPPORT
- Suicide crisis: Dial 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) or 9-8-8 if you are having a crisis or are concerned about someone who may be. Available 24 hours a day.
- Mental health issue: Dial 310-6789 from anywhere in BC to access emotional support, information, and other resources. Available 24 hours a day.
- KUU-US Aboriginal crisis line: Dial 1-800-588-8717 for support when facing any difficult situation. Available 24 hours a day.
