Learning how to access mental health care in Quebec
by Stephanie Paquette
Discussing mental health is as important as ever. No one is immune to mental health problems, and a staggering number of Canadians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime. The Canadian Association for Mental Health estimates that by the time Canadians reach 40 years of age, one in two have, or have had, a mental illness.
Mental illness impacts more than 6.7 million Canadians and is being touted as the hidden epidemic of the modern world. Accessing mental health services in Quebec is fraught with systemic barriers that prevent timely and culturally relevant support.
Learning where to access and how to navigate the Quebec health and social service network removes the barrier to mental health care that so many Quebec citizens desperately need.
As a social worker, I offer mental health support and am a strong advocate for individuals and families who would benefit from mental health services. Breaking down barriers to care requires a multi-layered approach that includes creating strong relationships and partnerships with the health and social service network, sharing pertinent information with providers and shouldering some of the weight that accompanies the stigma that hinders access to care.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of services to help guide you on your journey to mental wellness:
- Search for mental health resources in Quebec using your postal code: https://sante.gouv.qc.ca/en/repertoire-ressources/sante-mentale/
- Quebec governmental mental health support and resources: https://www.quebec.ca/en/health/mental-health/finding-help-and-support-for-mental-health/finding-mental-health-help-and-support-resources/mental-health-help-and-support-resources
- Family doctor wait list for Quebec: https://www.quebec.ca/en/health/finding-a-resource/registering-with-a-family-doctor
- Aire ouverte for young people aged 12-25 Access to nurses and social workers: https://www.quebec.ca/en/health/finding-a-resource/aire-ouverte-servicesfor-young-people-aged-12-to-25
- Find your local CLSC with your postal code: https://sante.gouv.qc.ca/en/repertoire-ressources/clsc/
- Speak with a nurse or a social worker 24/7. The social worker can help make the CLSC referral with you: Dial 811
- Suicide Prevention Centre of Montreal: https://cpsmontreal.ca/en/ or call 1-866-277-3553/text 535353
- Mental health services in Montreal: https://amiquebec.org/
- Free helpline and web service connecting you to community and social services in Greater Montreal, in over 200 languages: Dial 211 or type 211 into your internet.
The path to care may have peaks and valleys and taking early action to access support systems can help reduce the severity of an illness. If you or someone you know is experiencing an emergency, please contact 911 or go to the nearest emergency room at your local hospital.
Stephanie Paquette is a social worker in the Student Services Department at the English Montreal School Board.
