IWK to improve access to mental health, addictions support for Halifax-area youth

Psychotherapist speaking with teenage patient at clinic, providing help and support. (Source: iStock/Getty Images Plus) (Prostock-Studio/Getty Images)

Better access to mental health and addictions support will soon be available to children and youth aged 19 and under living in the Halifax Regional Municipality.

A news release from IWK Health says the IWK Mental Health and Addictions (MHA) Central Referral will expand hours to operate on all weekends and holidays and will offer extended hours on weekdays.

Beginning Sunday, the IWK MHA Central Referral hours will be:

- Monday and Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

- Wednesday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

- Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

“Clients and families facing mental health and addiction challenges are already navigating a very difficult experience,” says Brian Bailkowski, clinical manager of the IWK MHA Central Referral.

“We are pleased to make the process easier by offering extended Central Referral hours and more opportunities for children and youth to connect with the care they need.”

The IWK MHA Central Referral is a centralized telephone referral service staffed by access navigators who help assess the needs of children and youth looking for help with mental health and addictions issues.

Access navigators provide support and match children and youth to the mental health and addictions treatment options and services that best suit their needs.

“Expanding the availability of Central Referral services for children and youth is a vital step in improving access and coordination to care, ensuring that every young person can reach the support they need, no matter the time or circumstance,” says Maureen Brennan, director of IWK Mental Health and Addictions.

Anyone can self-refer by calling 1-855-922-1122, or a service provider can make a referral and support the call with the youth’s consent.

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