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Do this in a crisis

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Is this a mental health crisis?

[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”16″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]A mental health crisis is a non-life threatening situation where a person is showing extreme emotional disturbance or physical distress, considering harm to self or others, disoriented or out of touch with reality, has a compromised ability to function, or is otherwise agitated and unable to be calmed (must be willing to engage with mental health professionals).[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][vc_single_image image=”4358″ img_size=”full”][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text]Examples include: Talking about suicidal threats, talking about threatening behaviour, self-injury not requiring immediate medical attention, alcohol or substance abuse, highly erratic or unusual behaviour, and eating disorders.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

Call a crisis line

Call the mental health crisis line serving Cornwall, Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry and Akwesasne at 1-866-996-0991.

Examples:

  • Consult with a worker about possible resources based on the current situation
  • Ask for information on local services

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Seek out new information

Examples:

  • Review the symptoms of psychosis or substance dependence
  • Research patient support options that are available in your area and identify actions that may be appropriate to your situation (see the “Patient support & education tab” in Local Resources)
  • Speak with family members, friends, colleagues and neighbours to find people who have had similar experiences and exchange information (see Caregiver support & education tab” in Local Resources)
  • Download a mobile phone app to connect with support services, such as Connex Ontario (see Apps for mobile devices” in Helpful Links)

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Inquire about patient services

If your loved one is willing to get help, contact a number of community health agencies to inquire about patient intake (how to enroll a new patient).

Examples:

  • Call to make an appointment with a local addiction or mental health treatment centre
  • Visit the Cornwall Hospital Community Addictions and Mental Health building and register your loved one for an appropriate patient care service
  • Call the Canadian Mental Health Association of Champlain East to book an intake appointment for your loved one
  • Visit the Canadian Mental Health Association of Champlain East and register your loved one for an appropriate patient care service

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Do this in an emergency

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Is this a mental health emergency?

[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”16″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]A mental health emergency is a life threatening situation where a person is imminently threatening harm to self or others, severely disorientated or out of touch with reality, has a severe inability to function, or is otherwise distraught and out of control.

Examples include: Acting on a suicidal threat, homicidal or threatening behaviours, self-injury requiring immediate medical attention, severely impaired judgement as a result of consuming drugs or alcohol, highly erratic or unusual behaviour that is very unpredictable and/or an inability to care for self.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

Call 911 immediately

You feel that your loved one is at imminent risk of serious injury or death or if your loved one is posting a serious risk of bodily harm to someone else.

Examples:

  • A person is going to attempt suicide or was interrupted in an attempt
  • A person has a weapon or is actively threatening themselves or others with physical violence
  • You find your loved one severely under the influence of drugs or unconscious
Call a crisis line

Call the mental health crisis line at 1-866-996-0991 and explain the current situation: My loved one is having a mental health/addiction emergency and is willing to see a mental health professional.

Examples:

  • A person from the mental health crisis team may be able to come in person to the home
  • The mental health team may advise visiting a local hospital for urgent care
Visit the closest hospital emergency department

You are extremely concerned about the physical safety of your loved one.

Examples:

  • Your loved one feels like immediately acting on their suicidal thoughts
  • Your loved one is suffering from withdrawal symptoms and there are concerns about physical safety

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Mental health caregiver guide

[vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]In addition to validating the experience of family caregivers, this comprehensive guide for caregivers in the mental health system of eastern Ontario provides useful information and guidance, including how to take care of your own needs.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”3269″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”http://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/en/public-health-topics/resources/Documents/mental_health_caregiver_guide_en.pdf”][/vc_column][/vc_row]