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Depression

Depression is a mood disorder that affects the way you feel about yourself, others, and the world around you. Depression can look quite different from one person to the next. While one person might feel very sad and tired, another person might feel angry and restless. Depression (also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression) affects how you feel, think, and behave. You may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and sometimes you may feel as if life isn't worth living. 

Depression isn't a weakness, and you can't simply "snap out" of it. It’s a very real mental illness that needs treatment. Depression may require long-term treatment, but don’t get discouraged. Many people find some relief by reaching out to friends and family for support, physical activity, and eating well. And most people with depression feel better with professional help: medication, psychotherapy or both. 

 

What is normal?

Sadness is a part of being human. We all feel down sometimes. Feeling this way for a few days is normal. In fact, many people say that they’re depressed because they’re feeling low. But if these sad feelings last for more than a couple of weeks and you start noticing that it’s affecting your life in a big way, you may be suffering from clinical depression.

 

What are common signs and symptoms?

Although depression can sometimes occur only once during your life, people typically have multiple episodes that include:

  • Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness, or hopelessness
  • Angry outbursts, irritability, or frustration
  • Loss of interest in most normal activities, such as sex, hobbies, or sports
  • Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much
  • Tiredness and lack of energy
  • Reduced appetite and weight loss—or increased cravings for food and weight gain
  • Anxiety, agitation, restlessness
  • Slowed thinking, speaking, or body movements
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures
  • Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions, and remembering things
  • Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, even suicide attempts
  • Unexplained physical problems like back pain or headaches

 

Should I seek help?

If you feel depressed, make an appointment to see your doctor or mental health professional as soon as you can. If you're reluctant to seek treatment, talk to a friend or loved one, or someone else you trust.

If you think you may hurt yourself or attempt suicide, seek emergency treatment immediately—call 911 or the Nova Scotia Mental Health Crisis line at 1-888-429-8167.

 

Tools

Kids Help Phone

 Kids Help Phone
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.

Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only 24/7 e-mental health service offering free, confidential support to young people in English and French. Services include mental health tips and info, crisis support, professional counselling, quizzes, games and...

Visit Kids Help Phone

More Information:

Alcohol or drug use / Black, African Nova Scotian / Caregiver, Family / First Nations, Indigenous / 2SLGBTQIA+ / Anxiety / Depression / Eating Disorders / Grief / Self-Injury / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours
Adults / Children / Youth

Tranquility

 Green Shield Canada
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.

Tranquility is an internet-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT) program that has been shown to be effective in improving outcomes and reducing symptoms of mild to moderate anxiety and depression. Users of the program will have 24/7 access to...

Visit Tranquility

More Information:

Feeling Sad or Depressed / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Withdrawal from friends and activities / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Anxiety / Depression / Stress
Adults / Seniors / Youth

BounceBack

 Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
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.

BounceBack is a free program from the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) desgined to help adults and youth 15+ manage low mood, mild to moderate depression, anxiety, stress or worry. 

Working with workbooks and a trained coach to guide you...

Visit BounceBack

More Information:

Feeling Sad or Depressed / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Withdrawal from friends and activities / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Anxiety / Depression / Stress
Adults / Seniors / Youth

PSPNET (Public Safety Personnel)

 PSPNET
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.

As part of the Government of Canada’s National Action Plan on Posttraumatic Stress Injuries, PSPNET is offering and evaluating Internet-delivered cognitive behaviour therapy, also known as ICBT, specifically tailored for current and former Public...

Visit PSPNET (Public Safety Personnel)

More Information:

Feeling Sad or Depressed / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Withdrawal from friends and activities / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / First Responders / Anxiety / Depression / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Stress
Adults / Seniors

Togetherall

 Togetherall
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.

Togetherall is a clinically moderated, online peer-to-peer mental health community that empowers individuals to anonymously seek and provide support 24/7.

Togetherall provides millions of people access to a safe and supportive online community where...

Visit Togetherall

More Information:

Feeling Sad or Depressed / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Withdrawal from friends and activities / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Depression / Stress
Adults / Seniors / Youth

Well Central & Well-being Course

 Canadian Mental Health Association
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.

Well Central is an accessible and completely free virtual Recovery College offering interactive courses that empower individuals to take control of their mental health and well-being. The Well-being Course, the first course to be offered on the Well...

Visit Well Central & Well-being Course

More Information:

Anxiety / Depression / Stress / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Withdrawal from friends and activities / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried
Adults / Youth

HealthyMinds@Work

 Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
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.

Discover tools to help support your mental health efforts in creating a space where workers feel safe, respected, and valued.

Visit HealthyMinds@Work

More Information:

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 / Anxiety / Depression / Stress
Adults

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

Psychological First Aid pocket guide

 Red Cross
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.

This booklet is not intended to replace proper Psychological First Aid training.

Visit Psychological First Aid pocket guide

More Information:

Feeling Sad or Depressed / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Withdrawal from friends and activities / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief / Caregiver, Family / Anxiety / Depression / Grief / Stress
Adults / Seniors

MindShift CBT

 Anxiety Canada
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.

Is anxiety getting in the way of your life? MindShift™ CBT uses scientifically proven strategies based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help you learn to relax and be mindful, develop more effective ways of thinking, and use active steps to...

Visit MindShift CBT

More Information:

Feeling Sad or Depressed / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Withdrawal from friends and activities / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Anxiety / Depression / Stress
Adults / Youth

Antidepressant Skills at Work

 Psychology Health and Safety
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.

A self-care guide that teaches employees skills for managing depression and low mood. It utilizes established cognitive-behavioural techniques with a specific focus on workplace issues.

Visit Antidepressant Skills at Work

More Information:

Feeling Sad or Depressed / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Withdrawal from friends and activities / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Anxiety / Depression / Stress
Adults

Walk Along

 University of British Columbia
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.

WalkAlong isn't your typical mental health website, it is a community where young Canadians can explore their mental health amongst their peers. This portal is a Canadian-based mental health resource that also provides information and links to...

Visit Walk Along

More Information:

Feeling Sad or Depressed / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Withdrawal from friends and activities / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Anxiety / Depression / Stress
Youth

Mood Meter

 Government of Newfoundland
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.

We can all take actions to improve our ‘mood’ or mental wellness. The Mood Meter is a creative way for you to think about how you are feeling and what actions you can take to improve your mental wellness.

Visit Mood Meter

More Information:

Feeling Sad or Depressed / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Withdrawal from friends and activities / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Anxiety / Depression / Stress
Adults / Seniors / Youth

MindWell U

 MindWell U - Mindfulness-In-Action
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.

When you join you’ll learn how ‘mindfulness-in-action’ is the fastest way to decrease stress, increase resilience, improve your mental health, and make you more capable to handle all of life’s challenges.

Join now to see positive changes in all...

Visit MindWell U

More Information:

Feeling Sad or Depressed / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Withdrawal from friends and activities / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Anxiety / Depression / Stress
Adults / Seniors / Youth

47 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

Nova Scotia Brotherhood Initiative
Nova Scotia Health Authority

Nova Scotia Brotherhood Initiative is a free program for Black men to access health care in the community to improve overall health and wellbeing. A team of health care professionals provide culturally appropriate primary medical care plus health and...

Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Cannabis / Depression / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Stress
Central Zone
Adults / Seniors
Black, African Nova Scotian

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

Peer Support Phone Service
Mental Health Innovations
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 Peer Support Phone Service is a toll-free, non-crisis, province wide service, available to all Nova Scotians 18 years of age or older.  It is staffed by trained peer supporters, who have personal or family-based lived experience with mental...

Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Depression / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Adults / Seniors

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

Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq - Mental Wellness Team
Union of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq
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 Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq Mental Wellness Team provides case management and service navigation for First Nations persons of all ages seeking mental wellness services.

We work in collaboration with relevant community and provincial...

Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief / Grief / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Eastern Zone
Adults / Children / Seniors / Youth
First Nations, Indigenous

Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line
Indian Residential School Survivors Society
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 Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line is available 24-hours a day for anyone experiencing pain or distress as a result of their residential school experience. Call 1-866-925-4419. 
There are no fees associated with use and this service is...

Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief / Grief / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / 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
First Nations, Indigenous

Strongest Families Institute - Child, Youth and Parent
Strongest Families Institute
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.

Strongest Families Institute (SFI) offers evidence-based, bilingual mental health services for children/youth and their families, when and where they need it.

SFI’s scientifically proven distance-delivered services improve mental health and well...

Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Depression / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
/
Online Service
Children / Youth

IWK Mental Health and Addictions Program
IWK
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 IWK Mental Health and  Addictions Program provides specialized care throughout the province for children and youth up until their 19th birthday within a patient and family...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder / Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) / Cannabis / Depression / Detachment from reality (delusions, paranoia, or hallucinations) / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) / Opioids / Personality Disorders / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / Psychosis / 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

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

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

Kids Help Phone
Kids Help Phone
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.

Kids Help Phone is Canada’s only 24/7, national support service. We offer professional counselling, information and referrals and volunteer-led, text-based support to young...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Cannabis / Depression / Eating Disorders / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Grief / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Self-Injury / Stress / Suicidal thoughts and behaviours / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Central Zone
/
Eastern Zone
/
Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Children / Youth

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
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Eastern Zone
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Northern Zone
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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
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Eastern Zone
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Northern Zone
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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
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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
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Eastern Zone
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Northern Zone
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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
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Eastern Zone
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Northern Zone
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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
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Eastern Zone
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Northern Zone
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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
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Eastern Zone
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Northern Zone
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Western Zone
Children / Youth

Nova Scotia Operational Stress Injury (OSI) Clinic
Nova Scotia Health Authority

The Nova Scotia Operational Stress Injury Clinic (NSOSIC) belongs to a national network of OSI Clinics funded by Veterans Affairs Canada. The clinic provides mental health...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Cannabis / Depression / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Grief / Grief / Nicotine & Tobacco / Opioids / Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) / 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
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Northern Zone
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Western Zone
Adults / Seniors
Canadian Forces, RCMP

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
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Eastern Zone
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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
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Eastern Zone
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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 Clubhouse
Nova Scotia Health Authority

Crossroads Cape Breton is community organized to support people living with mental illness in reclaiming and enhancing their lives. People are referred to as “members” because...

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

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
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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
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Northern Zone
/
Western Zone
Children / Youth

Adolescent Outreach Services
Nova Scotia Health Authority

Adolescent Outreach Services (AOS) is an expansion of the CaperBase model, which originated in Cape Breton. AOS focuses on providing:

  • Brief and Early Intervention
  • Screening
  • Outreach
  • Community Partnerships

The AOS model is set up for youth...

Alcohol / Alcohol or drug use / Anxiety / Cannabis / Depression / Feeling Sad or Depressed / Feeling Stressed, Anxious or Worried / Gambling / Nicotine & Tobacco / Opioids / Self-Injury / Significant tiredness, low energy and problems sleeping / Stress / Withdrawal from friends and activities
Eastern Zone
/
Western Zone
/
Northern Zone
Children / Youth

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