Mental Health and Addictions service reintroductions

NSHA’s Mental Health and Addictions Program is here to help.
 
We know we have an important role in the public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic. From the beginning, we knew it was vital to continue to deliver a continuum of mental health and addictions services including outpatient, crisis and inpatient care to meet people’s needs. We are committed to service excellence - with patient, staff and physician safety being the top priority. 
 
OUTPATIENT - Since the state of emergency was declared, we have continued to provide quality care to our existing patients safely and to accept new patients throughout the pandemic. Outpatient services have been supported primarily using Telemental Health (telephone and video platform visits). Telemental Health is reported to be as satisfactory as face-to-face services for clients, patients, and their families. If someone needs an in-person appointment to best meet their needs, an appointment is arranged with a clinician. 
 
INPATIENT - We continue to provide inpatient admission for individuals who require that level of care to support their recovery, working within public health protocols to ensure the safety of patients, staff and physicians.
 
CRISIS - Crisis Response Services are available in emergency departments in many communities across NS. The provincial Mental Health Crisis Line is available 24/7 for an individual or someone concerned about them, (toll-free) 1-888-429-8167. 
 
You can self-refer to our Community Mental Health and Addictions clinics, Withdrawal Management Services, or Opioid Replacement and Treatment Program, using the Mental Health and Addictions Intake Service. Call (toll-free) 1-855-922-1122, to be connected to a clinician weekdays 8:30 to 4:30*. *This line has voicemail only evenings, weekends, and holidays. 
 
We have several online mental health and addictions resources meant to expand the options to access care and support.

For more information on Mental Health and Addictions Programs, please visit our website MHAhelpNS.ca