Mental Health Support for Newcomers
Watch this short video to learn about mental health, when to seek support, and where newcomers in British Columbia can find help.
Prefer reading? The key information from this video is summarized below.
Newcomer Mental Health: A Quick Guide
Learn common signs of emotional distress, simple ways to protect your well-being, and where to seek support in Canada.
View full infographic ↗Mental Health and Wellness
Explore trusted information about mental health, mental illness, coping with stressful events, crisis support, and suicide prevention.
Visit resource ↗What is mental health?
Mental health includes your emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Everyone experiences stress, sadness, or anxiety from time to time, but ongoing symptoms that interfere with daily life may benefit from professional support.
Where can I get help?
A family doctor or nurse practitioner is often the best place to start. They can assess your symptoms, discuss treatment options, and refer you to counsellors, psychologists, psychiatrists, or community mental health programs when appropriate.
Counselling and therapy
Counselling provides a safe place to talk with a trained professional about stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, or other concerns. Many communities also offer low-cost or free mental health services.
How to support your mental well-being
Healthy habits such as regular physical activity, enough sleep, balanced nutrition, spending time with supportive people, and staying connected to your community can all contribute to better mental health.
Is my information private?
Yes. Healthcare providers keep your personal health information confidential except in specific situations required by law to protect your safety or the safety of others.