Mental health is an important part of your physical health and personal well-being. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, mental illnesses are characterized by changes in thinking, mood, or behaviour associated with significant distress and impaired functioning. Mental illness can take many forms. Examples include: mood disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, problem gambling, or substance dependency.

It is important to know that no matter how you are feeling, you are not alone. There is help out there.

To learn about mental health and mental health issues, click on the links on this webpage.

For additional information or advice, call 8-1-1 any time of the day, any day of the year. If you are in an emergency, call 9-1-1.

Mental health can refer to a wide range of conditions that affect how you think, feel, or interact with other people. The list of conditions that fall under the mental health umbrella is extensive, and finding the information you need may be overwhelming. Our Learning Centre has mental health information in one place so that you can easily find what you are looking for.

• Mental and Behaviour Health Learning Centre.

For help navigating our website, call 8-1-1 to speak with a health services navigator any time of the day, any day of the year.

Mental Health and COVID-19

COVID-19 can make us feel confused, sad and anxious. Self-isolation may make us feel separate from the things and activities we use to help manage our feelings. It's good to learn about resources and supports to help you take care of yourself and your family.

• Mental Health and COVID-19

Depression

Depression is an illness that causes you to feel sad, lose interest in activities you previously enjoyed, withdraw from other people and have less energy. Learn more about the symptoms of depression, treatment options, when you should see a health care provider and what it means to live with depression.

• Depression
• Depression and Suicide
• Feeling Depressed
• Myths and Facts About Depression

Anxiety

Experiencing mild to moderate anxiety is common. However, if you experience severe anxiety you may have feelings of helplessness, confusion, or extreme worry that are out of proportion with the seriousness or likelihood of the cause of your worry. Learn more about the symptoms of anxiety, home treatment advice and what you can do to help prevent anxiety attacks.

• Anxiety
• Anxiety: Stop Negative Thoughts
• Helping Someone During a Panic Attack

Suicide

If someone you know is threatening suicide, always take them seriously. Learn about the warning signs of suicide, what to do if someone threatens suicide and what you can do to help.

• Provincial and Territorial Helplines and Websites
• Suicidal Thoughts or Threats
• Warning Signs of Suicide

Older Adults

Change is part of life, but for many older adults, life changes can trigger depression and impact their mental well-being. Abuse and neglect can also affect their health, happiness of safety. Learn more about helping the older adults in your life during times of stress.

• Depression in Older Adults
• Preventing Abuse and Neglect of Older Adults

Mental Health Tips

In this section, learn tips on how to boost your mental well-being and keep your mind active.

• A healthy aging brain
• Belly-Breathing (Diaphragmatic Breathing)
• Mental and Emotional Benefits of Activity

Last Updated: June 2021