We know the nature of the events and issues we are investigating can be difficult, and we encourage you to consider the mental health and other wellness supports available.
Sometimes reading about a distressing or emotionally overwhelming experience can remind us of circumstances that are upsetting and disturbing. It can bring up a specific thought pattern or memory that is difficult to think about. Materials in media stories or on social media may have this impact and could cause psychological distress. This is often referred to in literature as having a “triggering effect” or a “flooding of distressing memories.”
If you or someone you know is in need of support, you can contact the services listed below. If you are experiencing gender-based violence, intimate-partner or sexual violence, you can also consider the supports listed below or see additional information if you are not in immediate danger.
Reminder: An exit button is in the top right hand corner of this website that allows you to exit quickly at any time.
Mental Health and Wellness Services
211 Nova Scotia
211 is a free, confidential information and referral service that can connect you to thousands of programs and services offered by local community groups, nonprofits and government departments across Nova Scotia, 24/7.
Tel: 2-1-1
Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line
If you are experiencing overwhelming emotions, distress, or a mental health or addictions crisis, or are concerned about someone who is, the Provincial Mental Health Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This service is for all ages and you can call for yourself or because you have concern for someone else. You do not have to be in a crisis to call and nothing is too big or too small a reason to reach out. The staff responding when you call are skilled crisis clinicians. The NS Provincial Crisis Service can also provide the contacts for other 24/7 crisis services if you live outside of Nova Scotia.
Tel: 1-888-429-8167
Kids Help Phone
A national helpline for young people between the ages of 5 and 20, where confidential and anonymous support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Tel: 1-800-668-6868 or Text: CONNECT to 686868
Additional Services
Mental Health and Addictions Intake Service
If you or a family member needs help, you can self-refer to a mental health or addictions clinic, service or program through the Nova Scotia Health Authority or IWK Health Centre.
Tel: 1-855-922-1122 (Monday – Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm)
Shelter Safe - Women's Shelters Nova Scotia
If you are a woman experiencing abuse, there is someone you can reach out to any time of day or night.
Canada-wide: sheltersafe.ca
Nova Scotia Provincial Domestic Violence Line: 1-855-225-0220 (run 24/7 by the Transition House Association of Nova Scotia)
Victim Services
If you are in need of victim services, you can find available resources, support, and information through Nova Scotia’s Victim Services Programs.
Toll-free: 1-800-565-7912
Local: 902-485-3580 (Monday – Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm)