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Q: What does mental health mean?

A: The term mental health involves finding balance in all aspects of your life: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. 

Q: How do I know if I am suffering from a mental illness?

A: Everyone has ups and downs, good days and bad. A mental illness usually involves a problematic change in mood, the way you think or how you act with others. You may ask yourself “Has anyone ever mentioned to me that I am thinking or acting differently than normal? ”

Q: Where can I get general information on mental health and mental illness?

A: The Canadian Mental Health Association hosts a website called mymentalhealth.ca. Information that can be found there includes types, symptoms and causes of mental illness. It also allows you to measure your own mental health and provides information and resources on how to get help.

Q: What types of help are available to someone with mental health concerns?

A: The website mymentalhealth.ca outlines the types of help that may be available.

Q: Where can I get help for myself or for someone who wants help?

A: There are many options for help in Calgary and the surrounding area. Some of these are mental health programs through the Calgary Health Region. Others are available within the greater Calgary community. Some employers have counseling for their staff available through an employee assistance plan. Access Mental Health can assist you to get the help you need. Access Mental Health can be reached by phone (403) 943-1500, fax (403) 943-9044 or email mental.health@albertahealthservices.ca.

Q: What is a psychiatrist?

A: A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of mental, addictive and emotional illnesses. A psychiatrist may treat your problems with medication and/or therapy.

Q: When might a psychiatrist become involved in my care?

A: Your doctor may refer you to a psychiatrist one time to assist with medication or diagnosis. A psychiatrist may also be a part of the mental health treatment team that works with you.

Q: Where can I get an assessment for legal purposes?

A: Third party assessments (e.g. for legal services, WCB) are not available through the Calgary Health Region. If you require such an assessment, you could speak with your family doctor about getting a referral or contact the Alberta College of Physicians and Surgeons for more information.

Q: I am worried about a friend or family member. What can I do?

A: It can be very upsetting to see someone you care about having a hard time. Strategies for supporting someone with their mental health concerns can be found at: www.mymentalhealth.ca. You can also call Access Mental Health where you will be given information about mental health support. Access Mental Health can be reached by phone (403) 943-1500, fax (403) 943-9044 or email mental.health@albertahealthservices.ca.

Q: Where can I get help for someone who is having a hard time but does not want help?

A: The Distress Centre (403) 266-1605 will be able to assist with next steps of getting help. The Distress Centre can help people to connect with  urgent services as appropriate. In emergency situations (thoughts of suicide, homicide), you need to contact 911 immediately.