The Canadian Mental Health Association, Colchester-East Hants Branch offers Direct Service Programs to individuals living with mental health concerns.
As part of these programs, staff members work directly with individuals to support and improve their mental health.
Our DIRECT SERVICE PROGRAMS include:
Community Outreach Program
The Community Outreach Worker helps those in the Colchester-East Hants area who are not currently connected to community supports, by helping them navigate what’s available and accessing community resources that are right for them.This service is unique in that it seeks to serve both Mental Health Consumers, as well as those who care for them.
Services include offering individual support and advocacy for those who might be having difficulties accessing benefits or communicating effectively with medical professionals, speaking to Community groups, individual caregiver/mental health consumer support (short term) and co-facilitating the “Families Matter in Mental Health” course.
The age range for those seeking service is 20+ years. Individuals can self-refer, be referred by community agencies and partners, or be referred through Mental Health and Addiction Services.
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Independent Living Support Program
The Community Living Program began in 1985 and initially offered people with a mental illness case management support within their own home environment to facilitate as much independent living as possible. The program expanded in 1993 with the development of two Small Option Homes, with staff available for support twenty-four hours a day in a residential setting. There are over 40 people currently living in individual apartments in different areas of Colchester-East Hants with staff support.
Referrals to this program are made through the Department of Community Services or through private pay.
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The Club
The Club (previously called The Friendship Club) opened its doors in 1995. The Club provides a safe and supportive environment for adults who may be struggling with their mental health and are active in maintaining mental wellness. The Club provides a safe space free from the stigma of mental illness while in the company of supportive peers and professionals. Mental well-being is achieved through forming peer connections and by participation in social and recreational activities.
Membership is free. To join, either call 902-895-4211 or drop in to make an intake appointment.
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Youth Outreach Program
Youth referred to this program will receive individual support and direction from staff trained to provide accompaniment and navigation services. Its goal is to assist youth ages 16-24 in developing successful coping skills and to make appropriate linkages with other youth serving organizations.
Youth can be referred, drop-in, or self-refer to access the Youth Outreach Program.
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Art Works Program
Our Youth Outreach team and The Club offer art programs to the community. Collaborating with various local artists and our own staff, our art programs are aimed to offer fun and unique workshops to let out everyone’s creativity and imagination. Separate programs exist for both youth and adults. Contact us for more details.
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Auricular Acupunture
Free, weekly sessions from a Certified Auricular Acupuncturist offered to all community members from our branch. Participants report improved stress management, sleep, mood, and a reduction of cravings from nicotine and other substances. The session is open to everyone. Contact us for details and registration.