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Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings—from emotional highs (mania) to lows (depression). When you’re manic, you may feel euphoric and full of energy. When you’re depressed, you may feel sad or hopeless, and lose interest in most activities. These mood swings can affect your sleep, activity, judgment, and ability to think clearly.

Although bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, it’s important to know that you can manage your mood swings and other symptoms by following a treatment plan. Usually, bipolar disorder is treated with medications and psychological counselling.

 

What is normal?

We all have our ups and downs, but with bipolar disorder these peaks and valleys are more severe. More than occasional mood changes, bipolar disorder involves serious shifts in mood, energy, thinking, and behaviour. The cycles of bipolar disorder can last for days, weeks, or months.
 

What are common signs and symptoms?

The symptoms of the two parts of bipolar disorder are very different from each other.

Symptoms of depression:

  • Overwhelming feelings of sadness or grief
  • Losing interest in activities you normally enjoy
  • Avoiding other people
  • Sleeping more (or less) than usual
  • Eating more (or less) than usual
  • Having difficulty concentrating or making decisions
  • Feeling extremely irritable and angry
  • Feeling guilty all the time
  • Low energy, feeling very tired
  • Lost desire for sex
  • Feeling worthless, helpless, or hopeless
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

 

Symptoms of mania:

  • Excessively high or elevated mood
  • Extremely irritable or angry
  • Optimistic about everything, even when others aren't
  • Making quick decisions without thinking them through
  • Spending money more quickly 
  • Changing sexual habits
  • Racing thoughts
  • High levels of energy
  • Talking all the time or more quickly than usual
  • Sleeping less
  • Extremely short attention span
  • Seeing or hearing things that other people don’t

 

Should I seek help?

Often, people with bipolar disorder don't recognize how much their emotional instability disrupts their lives and the lives of their loved ones, so they don't get the treatment they need. If you have any symptoms of depression or mania, or if you see them in someone you love, see a doctor or mental health professional for help.

If you have suicidal thoughts or behaviours, seek emergency treatment immediately—call 911 or the Nova Scotia Mental Health Crisis line at 1-888-429-8167.

Bipolar disorder doesn't get better on its own. Getting treatment from a mental health professional with experience in bipolar disorder can help you get your symptoms under control.

 

Tools

Mental Health 101

 The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
This tool is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Tool Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the tool provider.

Knowledge is power. This series of free online tutorials is a starting point for learning about mental health.​ You can come away with a greater understanding of the mental health concern you are interested in knowing more about. The tutorials can...

Visit Mental Health 101

More Information:

Alcohol / Opioids / Cannabis / Nicotine & Tobacco / Gambling / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Withdrawal from friends and activities / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Alcohol or drug use / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Anxiety / Bipolar Disorder / Depression / Dementias / Eating Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Personality Disorders / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Stress
Adults / Seniors / Youth

42 Program(s)

RASP (Rapid Access and Stabilization Program)
Nova Scotia Health Authority

RASP offers patients that live in the Central Zone timely access to psychiatry consultation and the benefit of early input from a psychiatrist for the diagnosis and management of their mental health difficulties.

Referrals from primary care...

Anxiety / Bipolar Disorder / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
Adults / Seniors

The Bloom Program
Nova Scotia Health Authority

The Bloom Program is a community pharmacy initiative designed to increase and improve mental health and addictions care for Nova Scotians.

Who is eligible to participate?

Anyone with a Nova Scotia Health Card who has:

  • One or more mental health...
Anxiety / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Adults / Seniors

The Gathering Place
Nova Scotia Health Authority

The Gathering Place provides a safe, non-clinical, non-stigma space for clients who are stable in the diagnoses to attend on a weekly basis. The activities planned for each week vary, ranging from cooking low-cost, simple meals; what resources are...

Alcohol / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Western Zone
Adults / Seniors

Mental Health and Addictions Provincial Intake

Nova Scotia Health Authority

Mental Health and Addictions Provincial Intake is the entry point for all requests for service through the provincial toll free number 1-855-922-1122 Monday to Friday and all week-day holidays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. as well as Tuesday and Thursday...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Children / Seniors / Youth

Access Wellness Nova Scotia
TELUS Health
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

Access Wellness is a free single-session supportive counselling service for individuals (18 years and older), couples or families. 

Sessions can be held over the phone, online with video, or in-person. People can speak with a qualified professional...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Seniors
2SLGBTQIA+ / Black, African Nova Scotian / Canadian Forces, RCMP / First Nations, Indigenous

Hope For Mental Health
Hope For Mental Health
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

Hope For Mental Health is profoundly committed to empowering individuals and families affected by mental illness to achieve their goals and reach their full potential. Guided by the vision of an inclusive society, Hope For Mental Health works to...

Anxiety / Bipolar Disorder / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia
Online Service
Adults / Seniors / Youth

Mental Health Acute Day Hospital
Nova Scotia Health Authority

The Mental Health Acute Day Hospital cares for people with intense mental health issues or concerns. We offer:

  • More closely monitored care than what is offered by community MHA clinics
  • Support after you are discharged from an inpatient...
Anxiety / Bipolar Disorder / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Stress
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Western Zone
/
Northern Zone
Adults

Canadian Mental Health Association - Colchester East Hants Branch
Canadian Mental Health Association
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Colchester East Hants Branch provides public education, advocacy, and a resource center to support the resiliency and recovery of people...

Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief / Grief / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Northern Zone
Adults / Seniors

Canadian Mental Health Association - Halifax-Dartmouth Branch
Canadian Mental Health Association
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Halifax-Dartmouth Branch works at the community level and facilitates access to the resources people require to maintain and improve...

Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Bipolar Disorder / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief / Grief / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
Adults / Seniors

Canadian Mental Health Association - Nova Scotia Division
Canadian Mental Health Association
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

Canadian Mental Health Associations in Nova Scotia are the oldest community-based mental health and addictions charitable organizations in the province, founded in 1908. The CMHA...

Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief / Grief / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Eastern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Seniors

Laing House
Laing House
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

Laing House, located in Halifax, is a drop-in centre for youth aged 16 – 29 living with mental health illness and/or challenges. Based on peer support, youth can meet friends who...

Anxiety / Bipolar Disorder / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Youth

Healthy Minds Cooperative
Healthy Minds Cooperative
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

Healthy Minds Cooperative is an innovative mental health cooperative that provides a variety of peer-based services to people with lived experience of mental health issues and to...

Anxiety / Bipolar Disorder / Dementias / Depression / Eating Disorders / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief / Grief / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Personality Disorders / Psychosis / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours
Central Zone
Adults / Seniors

Hope for Wellness HelpLine
Donna Cona
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

The Hope for Wellness HelpLine offers immediate mental health counselling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous peoples across Canada. Experienced and culturally competent...

Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief / Grief / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Personality Disorders / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Seniors / Youth
First Nations, Indigenous

Eskasoni Mental Health
Eskasoni Mental Health Services (EMHS)
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

Eskasoni Mental Health Services (EMHS) provides a wide range of services to the Mi’kmaq people of Eskasoni, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. The Tui'kn Residential School Survivor Team...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Eastern Zone
Adults / Seniors / Youth
First Nations, Indigenous

Caregivers Nova Scotia
Caregivers Nova Scotia
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

Caregivers Nova Scotia provides free programs, services, information, and advocacy for family and friend caregivers. We are dedicated to providing recognition and practical assistance to friends and family giving care.

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Seniors
Caregiver, Family

211
211
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

211 is a free, confidential information and referral service that can connect you to thousands of programs and services offered by local community groups, nonprofits and government departments across Nova Scotia, 24/7.

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Children / Seniors / Youth

Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services - Mental Health Programs and Services
Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) is responsible for administering Non-Public Property (NPP) on behalf of the Chief of the Defence Staff and for delivering...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Seniors
Canadian Forces, RCMP

Veterans Affairs Canada Assistance Service
Veterans Affairs Canada
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

Veterans Affairs provide targeted services and benefits to improve well-being including support and services related to your physical and mental health and wellness.The VAC...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Seniors
Canadian Forces, RCMP

Families Matter in Mental Health

Hope For Mental Health
This service is not administered by Nova Scotia Health Authority. Service Information may be incorrect and/or out of date. Confirm details with the service provider.

Families Matter in Mental Health is an 11-week education and support program for family or friends who are providing practical and/or emotional support to someone who has a...

Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults
Caregiver, Family

Transition Hall
Nova Scotia Health Authority

Transition Hall is a recovery-oriented service designed to support individuals diagnosed with a mental illness, and experiencing significant functional challenges, who would benefit from psychosocial and recovery focused care in a 24/7 setting.

Bipolar Disorder / Depression / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Personality Disorders / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Stress
Central Zone
Adults

Health Psychology
Nova Scotia Health Authority

Health Psychology offers psychological interventions for those with chronic and acute health conditions. The main focus is on the patient's mental and emotional reaction to an illness or their recovery from an illness.

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Western Zone
Adults

Wellness Court
Nova Scotia Health Authority

Wellness Court Programs are specialty or problem-solving courts, where a team of professionals helps treat the issues contributing to the individual coming into conflict with the...

Alcohol or drug use / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Depression / Gambling / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia
Central Zone
/
Northern Zone
Adults

Geriatric Psychiatry Acute Inpatient Unit
Nova Scotia Health Authority

The Geriatric Psychiatry Acute Inpatient Unit is for individuals over the age of 65 with a new onset of mental illness or for individuals of any age with dementia and complicated medical and/or psychological symptoms.

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Bipolar Disorder / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Seniors

Geriatric Psychiatry Outpatient Program
Nova Scotia Health Authority

Seniors mental health services provide assessment, consultation and treatments to:

  • seniors aged 65 and older for a new onset of mental health challenges
  • individuals of any...
Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Gambling / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours
Central Zone
Seniors

DaRT Program
Nova Scotia Health Authority

The Dynamic (attachment-focused) Relational Therapy Program (DaRT) is a part-time six week intensive group psychotherapy program. It is a treatment program that is designed to support adults who have experienced complex emotional trauma resulting in...

Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Bipolar Disorder / Depression / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Self-Injury / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours
Central Zone
Adults

Adult Neurodevelopmental Stabilization Unit - Dual Diagnosis Program (Intellectual Disability in combination with Mental Illness)
Nova Scotia Health Authority

The Adult Neurodevelopmental Stabilization Unit (ANSU) is an acute care unit that provides services for persons with intellectual disability and acute mental illness that cannot...

Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Bipolar Disorder / Dementias / Depression / Eating Disorders / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults

Community Transition Program (CTP)
Nova Scotia Health Authority

The Community Transition Program (CTP) helps adults who have complex (mental and physical) health and behavioural challenges, and residential/social support needs. The goal is to...

Bipolar Disorder / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Personality Disorders / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults

Community Outreach Assessment Support and Treatment Team (COAST) - Dual Diagnosis Program (Intellectual Disability in combination with Mental Illness)
Nova Scotia Health Authority

The community outreach assessment support and treatment team provides services for persons with both intellectual disability and also mental illness. These services include:

  • A...
Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults

School Mental Health (SchoolsPlus)
Nova Scotia Health Authority

The school mental health clinicians provide individual and group therapy, mental health and addictions education for school staff and consultation services. Clinicians are on...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Children / Youth

Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line
Nova Scotia Health Authority

The Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line provides crisis intervention for children, youth and adults experiencing a mental health crisis or mental distress.

The...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Children / Seniors / Youth
2SLGBTQIA+ / Black, African Nova Scotian / Canadian Forces, RCMP / Caregiver, Family / First Nations, Indigenous / First Responders

Inpatient Mental Health Services
Nova Scotia Health Authority

Inpatient mental health services are available for those who cannot be safely assessed, diagnosed and stabilized in the community. 

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Bipolar Disorder / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Seniors

First Nations Services
Nova Scotia Health Authority

Mental Health clinicians work as part of the first nations health care team in several first nations communities. The Mental Health Clinician provides assessment, diagnosis and...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Children / Seniors / Youth
First Nations, Indigenous

Crossroads Cape Breton
Nova Scotia Health Authority

Located in Sydney, Crossroads Cape Breton offers a variety of outreach, housing and community supports. Through this program, people discover purpose, build skills and improve...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia
Eastern Zone
Adults / Seniors

Community Support Service (Adults)
Nova Scotia Health Authority

The Community Support Teams for Adults/Community Supports for Adults supports individuals living with persistent mental illness to develop and maintain a safe, satisfying quality...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Gambling / Nicotine & Tobacco / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Psychosis / Schizophrenia
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Seniors

Adult Community Mental Health and Addictions Services
Nova Scotia Health Authority

Community Mental Health and Addictions includes a team of mental health and addictions professionals who provide services on an outpatient basis. The team provides assessment...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Dementias / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Seniors

Child and Adolescent Services
Nova Scotia Health Authority

Child and Adolescent Services/Child Youth and Family/Child and Adolescent Outpatient Clinical Services provide mental health and addiction services to children and youth (under...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Bipolar Disorder / Cannabis / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / Schizophrenia / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
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Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
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Western Zone
Children / Youth

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