I recently attended a free workshop about depression & spirituality run by the LOST Organization in Hamilton – an inspiring new(ish) Non-Profit in Hamilton. LOST stands for Living Outside of Suffering and Trauma.
They offer yoga, peer-group support, and creative time for people of any age, either with mental health issues or those supporting others with mental health issues. This place could be great for teens or adults.
The organization was created by a woman, Rebecca, who has depression and was tired of waiting for publicly-funded supports to become available to her.
The workshop I attended was packed and it was easy to see why. Events and support are either free or at a low cost. Go check them out. It’s not restricted by geographic area.
Here’s a quick list of other publicly-funded child and youth mental health supports in Hamilton & Burlington.
Child & Youth Mental Health Supports
Emergencies
For emergencies go to your local emergency department or call 911.
Crisis-Services
- Adults
If you’re 16 or older contact the 24-hour services COAST Hamilton Crisis Line at 905-972-8338 or call the COAST Halton Crisis Line at 877-825-9011.
- Children or Youth
If you’re a child or teenager, you can chat on-line at Kids Help Phone Line or call them at 1-800-668-6868. It is a 24-hour service.
Counselling & Psychotherapy
Contact Hamilton is the starting place for any publicly-funded programs related to child and youth mental health in the Hamilton region. They have the most current list of services and will help you find the best fit. Call 905-570-8888.
The Rock is great place to start in the Burlington area. They offer some walk-in sessions.
Free Local Groups
Visit Growing Together for the most current list of workshops, groups and resources available free of charge to families living in the Hamilton area.
Interesting in learning how to advocate for your child? Or do you want to connect with other parents going through similar issues as you are? Visit Parents for Children’s Mental Health.
LOST organization – If you’re a parent or teen/adult with your own mental health issues and want some FREE peer support, consider visiting this non-profit organization located in Hamiltong.
Tools to Use at Home
If you’re a parent on a waitlist or wanting tools to try now at home, go to Mental Health Foundations. If you’re looking for local support using these tools, you can Contact Me.
If you have a burning question about mental health, a question that no one seems to be able to answer, or if you find google isn’t giving you what you want, check out Quora. You’ll find questions and answers about all kinds of mental health concerns and very well written answers either by professionals in the field of child and youth mental health or from people who have anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, and so much more. Please note that the answers provided on Quora are not reviewed for accuracy, but that that the content is a much better quality than other forums I’ve reviewed. Please use your best judgment.
