Ottawa Mental Health Crisis Line

A crisis can include difficulty dealing with stress, overwhelming feelings, symptoms of depression, anxiety or psychosis, suicidal thoughts, or any concerns regarding your mental health or that of your loved ones. If it’s a crisis to you, it’s a crisis to us. There are two components to the Crisis Service: MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS LINE Is the first point of public access to the mental health crisis response system. Serves people 16 years of age and over. Provides toll-free telephone access in both French and English, 24 hours / 7 days a week. Is staffed by trained volunteer crisis line responders, supported by professional staff. Provides screening, assessment, referrals, support in a crisis, suicide intervention and transfer to the Local Crisis Team or to emergency services when advisable. LOCAL CRISIS TEAM The Local Crisis Team can generally respond within minutes to phone calls and within 24 hours to see someone face-to-face. The Local Crisis Team works closely with emergency services (such as, hospital emergency departments and police), doctors and other community agencies to ensure a safe and comprehensive response. Services include crisis intervention, assessment, consultation, and links to community supports in a least intrusive approach to enable individuals in crisis to receive services in their own environment. Consultation and advice can be provided to family members. Follow-up and support services can be provided to help resolve the crisis. The Local Crisis Team includes registered nurses, social workers, crisis counselors, and other health professionals. TO REACH THE CRISIS LINE Individuals, families or concerned friends can call 613-722-6914 or the toll free Mental Health Crisis Line at: 1-866-996-0991 Your calls will be answered as quickly as possible. The average wait time is 2 minutes. You will not wait more than 10 minutes. The volunteer crisis line responder will offer you support and, if required, can make a direct transfer to the Local Crisis Team with your consent, including your name and phone number. You will be asked to provide all relevant information about the crisis: What caused the current crisis? Is there one particular event? What triggered your current emotions or feelings? Are you alone or with others? Are you currently injured? Is this a situation that can be worked on over the phone? Provide names of friends or family as available