Support Options

What Are Mental Health Supports?

Mental health supports are a range of activities and interventions that help people achieve their best possible mental health, improve their quality of life, and reduce unfair and avoidable differences in health across different groups within society ( also known as health inequalities). The needs of all individuals look different and that’s why it’s important to consult with a professional to assess what your specific needs might be. 

Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. It is an important component of health and well-being that underpins our individual and collective abilities to make decisions, build relationships and shape the world we live in. Mental health is a basic human right. And it is crucial to personal, community and socio-economic development.  

Some mental health supports include:

  • Peer support: This can include support groups, self-help groups, or one-to-one support, such as mentoring or befriending. 
  • Self-care: This can include eating balanced meals, exercising, getting enough sleep, taking breaks, and connecting with others. 
  • Therapy: This can be virtual or in person. 
  • Medication: This can be used in combination with therapy.
  • Cognitive remediation apps: These apps can help people improve their thinking skills. 
  • Mental Health Community Support Services (MHCSS): These services are managed by non-government organizations and can help people with mental illness live in the community.
  • Community organizations/groups: Exercise groups, book clubs, or any community group that offers beneficial social interactions and opportunities for connection. 
  • Spiritual support: If an individual identifies with a specific religion or spiritual group it can be beneficial for them to attend.
  • Relationships: With family, partners, friends, can be a positive support for individuals.
  • Online supports: This instant communication through online support can strengthen bonds and provide a sense of closeness, even when friends are physically apart.
  • Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS): This can be general support to prevent or reduce psychological distress, or specific support to treat mental health conditions. MHPSS can be provided by a variety of people, including community members, aid workers, volunteers, or individuals with lived experience. 
  • Mental health aides: These professionals provide emotional support and encouragement to people with mental health issues. They help people cope with their emotions and create a non-judgmental space for them to express their feelings.
  • Pharmacotherapy: This is a therapy that uses pharmaceutical drugs, such as antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and lithium, to treat mental illness. It can only be prescribed by a medical professional trained in psychiatry

Every individual has their own specific level of support. Meeting with a professional to assess your needs and identify supports is crucial. If you are not sure where to start, we've got you covered! 

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