The province’s mental health support over the phone is extended to weekday holidays.
“People’s mental health challenges don’t take holidays,” said Brian Comer, Minister responsible for the Office of Addictions and Mental Health. “We need to be there for Nova Scotians when and where they need us. Increasing access to this line is one of many ways we’re working to better meet the mental health needs of Nova Scotians.”
The phone line is a point of intake if you’re looking for mental health support.
You’ll then be assessed and matched with the right type of care from that point.
People who need care or help finding available supports can call 1-855-922-1122 Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On Tuesdays, the line is open until 8 p.m. The Province plans to expand the hours later this year.
Budget 2023-24 includes funding to expand acute mental health day hospitals and recovery support centres. This will help people with more intensive needs.
“It can be difficult and overwhelming to ask for support for mental health and addictions issues. Most people struggle with knowing where to start. Intake is a service that allows Nova Scotians to speak directly with a trained clinician who can work to understand their specific concerns and help connect them with the most appropriate care.”
– Michelle MacRae, patient access navigator, Mental Health and Addictions Program, Nova Scotia Health
Quick Facts:
— the mental health and addictions intake line was launched in 2019
— more than 82,000 calls were made to the intake line last year
— the line is staffed by health professionals including nurses and social workers
— people who are in a mental health or addictions crisis should call the crisis line at 1-888-429-8167 or 911
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