Stressful experiences often arise from job loss, the passing of a loved one, or changes in life circumstances. While difficulties are unavoidable, learning to cope with them is crucial. However, many Calgarians struggle to address psychological challenges on their own. Fortunately, Calgary offers numerous resources for those in need. Learn more about them on calgarynka.
Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
The CMHA is one of Canada’s oldest community organizations, founded in 1918 by Dr. Clarence Hincks to combat mental illnesses among Canadians.
The association operates branches across the country. The Calgary branch opened in 1955 and has since focused on enhancing mental health and well-being through a wide range of services for individuals, families, groups, and organizations. It is located near Shaw Millennium Park, along the C-Train line in Calgary’s west downtown.
CMHA staff include advocates, educators, counselors, and other professionals experienced in addressing mental health crises, helping people rebuild fulfilling lives. Many Calgarians have received assistance here to overcome substance dependencies and emotional distress.
The addiction recovery model prioritizes well-being, shifting from a narrow diagnostic focus to empowering individuals by building their strengths, resilience, and hope for meaningful lives. The organization also engages peers with lived experience of mental health or substance use challenges to support others through shared understanding and hope.
Distress Centre
This social service organization offers 24/7 support to individuals in crisis. Specialists provide a listening ear, recommend helpful resources, or simply engage in conversation via phone, email, or online chat at any time. Their mission is to remain nonjudgmental and validate everyone’s struggles.
The Distress Centre began in 1970 as a Drug Information Centre, offering impartial information about substances. During its first year, volunteers responded to 3,837 calls and 1,724 inquiries. By 1973, the focus shifted from solely drug-related issues to broader crises and dependencies. In 1975, the centre unofficially adopted the name Distress Centre and launched a 24-hour crisis line.
In 2005, the centre partnered with the City of Calgary and United Way to launch the “211 Calgary” line. In 2021, the Distress Centre introduced 24/7 text and chat crisis support, continuing its longstanding commitment to accessible mental health services.
Calgary Communities Against Sexual Abuse (CCASA)
Sexual violence is one of the most prevalent forms of abuse, often causing shock, fear, and sadness and, in some cases, leading to anxiety or depressive disorders. Women are disproportionately affected.
Founded in 1994, CCASA builds a robust foundation and network of counseling and educational services for those affected by sexual violence, addressing the resulting psychological issues.
CCASA’s mission is to raise awareness of both visible and hidden patterns of violence, as well as the behavioral, emotional, and socioeconomic consequences for individuals, families, and society. They provide support to help individuals heal from the trauma of sexual violence, emphasizing that survivors are never to blame—responsibility always lies solely with the perpetrator.
Eastside Community Mental Health Services (Wood’s Homes)
When families face challenges at home or need someone to talk to, they can turn to Eastside Community Mental Health Services. The organization supports children, youth, and families with mental health services.
Founded in 1914 by George Wood as a children’s shelter, Wood’s Homes now operates across three major campuses and multiple locations throughout Calgary.
Accredited by Accreditation Canada, Wood’s Homes has earned two Leading Practice Awards. Known nationally for its innovative services, it established a research department in 2001 and, in 2016, launched a children’s mental health research chair in partnership with the University of Calgary’s Faculty of Social Work.
Wood’s Homes provides quality mental health services aimed at restoring the well-being of families and children facing significant challenges. For those who prefer privacy, therapy options are available via phone, text, email, or online chat.
Flourish Psychological Services
Since 2011, Flourish Psychological Services has provided high-quality personalized therapy to Calgarians. They offer consultations for individuals and couples.
The team helps clients address anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, addiction, anger issues, and family conflicts. Adolescents receive support for bullying, family disputes, friendship challenges, and identity struggles. Their counseling methods are evidence-based, ensuring effective outcomes.