One in five Canadians will experience a mental health problem or illness within any given year. It’s a common problem, but it can feel surprisingly isolating.

The first thing you should know is that you’re not alone. Not only is this true statistically, but there are many helpful resources available for Canadians who are struggling with mental health issues.

The following are eight powerful resources you can turn to at any time for help, guidance or information.

Kids Help Phone

Although the word “phone” is in the title, this service provides so much more than phone support.

Visit KidsHelpPhone.ca, and you can find out how to live chat, text or call the hotline. The website also acts as an information resource with articles on things like emotional wellbeing, relationships, bullying and more. They even teach teens about drug dangers. And there’s also a section where you can search for youth resources in your area. These resources may include things like counselling, crisis intervention, violence and abuse support, and housing support.

Kids Help Phone is the only 24/7 national support resource in Canada, and the service is completely confidential. You don’t even have to give your name unless you want to.

Mind Your Mind

Mind Your Mind is a great resource for anyone who is personally struggling with mental health issues, but it also offers a great deal of advice for people who want to help friends who are suffering.

If you’re looking for help, visit Mind Your Mind’s website and click on the Help link. From here, you’ll have options. From “I don’t know what’s wrong” to “I’m in crisis,” there’s something for everyone here.

And if you don’t know which path to take, you can always head straight for the resources section and choose a hotline to call.

Jack.org

Formerly Healthy Minds Canada, Jack.org is a different kind of resource for Canadian youth.

This isn’t the place to call if you need help with a personal issue, but it’s the perfect place to rally around the conversation of mental health in your nation. Jack.org’s mission is to inform people about mental health issues and remove the stigma that surrounds them.

If you want to get involved, head to Jack.org/chapters to find a chapter near you.

National Network for Mental Health

This organization’s purpose is to advocate, educate and offer resources to increase Canadian’s health and wellbeing.

The National Network for Mental Health’s focus is on mental health. It’s a great place to go for information on mental health issues. You can also get involved by volunteering or sponsoring programs.

Mood Disorders Society of Canada

If you’ve been diagnosed with a mood disorder, or if you suspect you have one, the Mood Disorders Society of Canada is a powerful resource.

On their website, you can get help, get informed or get involved in spreading the word about mood disorders.

Anxiety Disorders Association of Canada

This organization’s aim is to prevent, treat and manage anxiety disorders among Canadians. But it’s also a very helpful resource for finding ways to improve life with an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety Canada has resources for both children and adults, and they offer a handy app to help you take charge of your anxiety (coming soon).

Mental Health Commission of Canada

The Mental Health Commission of Canada’s purpose is to help improve the mental health and overall wellbeing of all Canadians.

They attempt to achieve this through a mental health system that meets the needs of anyone living with mental health issues or illnesses.

The Mental Health Commission also offers services for families of people struggling with mental health issues.

Canadian Mental Health Association

The Canadian Mental Health Association is responsible for promoting mental health throughout the country, which includes supporting people in their recovery. They have various available programs, including individual support, peer support and workplace programs.

If you’re suffering from a mental illness, you have options. Whatever you do, don’t suffer in silence. If you don’t want to share your problems, you can always talk anonymously. But it’s important to find treatment before any mental health issues worsen.

And if you’re feeling an overwhelming sense of hopelessness coupled with suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harm, call a hotline right away.

You aren’t alone in this.

Article written by Trevor McDonald