Generalized anxiety disorder: How to find help
Seek support for GAD
"People with anxiety often suffer in silence and they don't go for help until they reach some kind of crisis, but GAD really is very treatable," says Walker. "I really encourage people to do something about it and not just think, 'This is the way I am.'"
Here's how to find information and support in your region:
British Columbia
The Anxiety Disorders Association of British Columbia works in partnership with the Anxiety Disorders Clinic at the University of British Columbia and offers a range of free programs and seminars across the province. Their website features some great self-help resources including an anxiety disorders self-screening tool.
Alberta
The Alberta Mental Health Board has a 24-hour toll-free helpline offering health care referrals and advice: 1-877-303-2642.
Saskatchewan
There is a 24-hour Health Line for Saskatchewan residents, staffed by registered nurses, that offers advice on all types of health issues including mental health. Call 1-877-800-0002.
Manitoba
The Anxiety Disorders Association of Manitoba (ADAM) works with the Anxiety Disorders Program at St. Boniface Hospital to provide free support groups and CBT programs. The ADAM website offers a range of resources and links to programs in the province.
Ontario
The Anxiety Disorders Association of Ontario offers support groups and workshops. Many hospitals in the province have anxiety disorder clinics offering group therapy at no -- or low -- cost, however most require a doctor's referral and wait lists to join these groups can be long.
Quebec
REVIVRE, the Quebec Anxiety, Depressive and Bipolar Disorder Support Association, offers a toll-free helpline at 1-866-738-4873. Call for information and referrals. You can also find info on self-help groups and a range of excellent resources (including a chat room) on its website.
Newfoundland & Labrador
You can either contact the Canadian Mental Health Association, Newfoundland and Labrador Division at 709-753-8550 or the Mental Health Crisis Line at 1-888-737-4668 for information on services in your area.
New Brunswick
New Brunswick has a provincial health helpline called Chimo, 1-800-667-5005, which helps with referrals to GAD services and support groups.
P.E.I.
Counselling services are offered throughout P.E.I. through Community Mental Health. Residents can call the bilingual Island Helpline, 1-800-218-2885, for information.
Nova Scotia
Services in Nova Scotia are delivered by district health authorities -- a listing is available on the government's Mental Health Services website.
Yukon & Northwest Territories
The government-run Mental Health Crisis line at 1-800-661-0844 covers both territories, and the Canadian Mental Health Association has information on support groups. Call the Yukon Division at 1-867-667-8346 and for the Northwest Territories, dial 1-867-873-3190.
To find out more about GAD, visit the Anxiety Disorders Association of Canada website.
Page 2 of 2
