Finding Help
If you need help in an emergency or are in crisis:
- visit your local emergency department or call 911
- contact a distress centre in Ontario near you (phone numbers provided below).
Update: In light of the current Canada Post strike, online giving is the quickest and most effective way to support CAMH.
Donate hereIf you are in an emergency, in crisis or need someone to talk to, there is help.
View Crisis ResoucesIf you are in an emergency, in crisis or need someone to talk to, there is a list of resources available for areas in and around Toronto.
If you need help in an emergency or are in crisis:
When in need of someone to talk to. Operated by various agencies. Open 24 hours a day (unless otherwise indicated):
As Canada’s leading mental health research hospital, CAMH is dedicated to suicide prevention. We investigate, develop and implement treatments and policies that give people hope for a better tomorrow. We hope you find the following resources for you and your family helpful.
If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, there are resources available to help you.
More InformationIf you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, you are deserving of help and can call 1-833-456-4566. If you feel safe in the moment, follow up with your family physician or care team. If you require immediate, in-person emergency care, call 911, or go to your nearest emergency department.
If you are at risk for suicide, you may:
It is important to remember that suicide is preventable. Most people who have suicidal thoughts or have attempted suicide go on to live full, meaningful lives.
If you think someone you care about may be at risk of suicide, there are steps you can take to help them through this difficult time.
More InformationIt may be difficult to know if a person is thinking about suicide, but familiarizing yourself with common warning signs can better prepare you to notice someone who is at risk.
People who are at risk for suicide may:
If you’re worried someone you know may be at risk of suicide, be direct and ask them if they have been experiencing suicidal thoughts. Reaching out can save a life.
Read MoreIf someone dear to you has died by suicide, there are dedicated resources that can support you through your grief and help you make sense of what has happened.
More InformationWhen a loved one dies by suicide, your emotions can overwhelm you. As you face life after a loved one’s suicide, using healthy coping strategies and seeking support from others will help you begin the journey to healing and acceptance.
The grieving process is different for each person and there is no timeline for grief. It’s important to remember that what you’re feeling is normal.
It may be difficult to speak openly about suicide, but it is important to tell family and friends the truth. This allows them to help each other cope with their grief while also helping you work through yours. When talking to children and young people about suicide, use words that match their age and development. Reassure them that suicide is never anyone’s fault.
Remind yourself you will survive. There will be times when your grief is overwhelming. But you will learn how to cope and heal in a way that honours the memory of your loved one. It is hard to believe now, but you will get through it. And as time goes on, the pain will lessen.
Read MoreCAMH has developed a catalogue of research-informed educational materials on the topic of suicide, mental illness and addictions. By knowing the facts, you can help dispel the myths and taboos that lead to shame and silence.
When a family member is suicidal
When a parent dies by suicide: What kids want to know
When someone close to you dies by suicide
What suicide notes teach us about experiences with mental illness and mental health care
By learning how to talk about suicide in a hopeful, respectful way, we can ensure suicide is seen for what it is: a public health problem, not a moral weakness.
For more information, download our full language guide below.
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