Urgent Care

Connect with someone now.

Call toll free at:
1.800.465.4442

5:00 pm to midnight 365 days a year

A free, confidential and anonymous telephone support service. The distress line allows a safe and comfortable space to reach someone in your time of need. The Distress Centre is available to individuals living within Lanark Leeds and Grenville.

Call or Text:
9-8-8

Available 24/7/365 days a year

If you're experiencing despair, struggling to cope, or facing thoughts of suicide, reach out to 9-8-8. Trained responders offer non-judgmental listening, support, and information on resources to assist you. 9-8-8 aims to foster connections, promote hope, aid recovery, and save lives. Our vision is a Canada where everyone can access help, preventing suicide in times of need.

Crisis Services

613.283.2170

Mon to Friday 8:00am to 4:00 pm

In moments of acute emotional distress, Lanark County Mental Health serves as a steadfast pillar of support for individuals and their families. We offer a range of vital services aimed at addressing immediate challenges and fostering long-term well-being.

About our services

In moments of acute emotional distress, Lanark County Mental Health serves as a steadfast pillar of support for individuals and their families. We offer a range of vital services aimed at addressing immediate challenges and fostering long-term well-being.

Assessment

Our journey together begins with a comprehensive assessment, where our skilled professionals gain insight into your unique situation. Through open dialogue and careful evaluation, we tailor our support to your specific needs.

Stabilization

Central to our approach is stabilization. Our nurturing environment allows you to regain balance during tumultuous times. Collaborating with our experts, we develop a personalized plan to restore emotional equilibrium.

Brief Counselling

Our brief counseling sessions provide a safe space to explore your emotions, thoughts, and concerns. Our experienced staff offer insights, coping strategies, and perspectives that empower you to navigate challenges and build resilience.


Linkages to Community Resources: We believe well-being extends beyond our care. That's why we're committed to connecting you with community resources for ongoing support. Whether it's additional counseling, workshops, or specialized services, we ensure you have access to a tailored support network.

Mobile Crisis Response Team

MCRT staff, along side Smiths Falls Police Service and Lanark County OPP, provide a live response to support individuals and their families who are experiencing acute emotional distress through assessment, stabilization, brief counselling, and linkages to community resources. This service is only accessed by calling emergency services.



FAQ

  • How do I know if I need help immediately?

    It's important to seek immediate help if you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, if you are in a situation of immediate danger, or if you are experiencing an acute crisis that you feel unable to cope with. Other signs that you might need immediate help include feeling overwhelmed by intense feelings of despair or panic, experiencing a significant decline in daily functioning, or having a sudden and intense reaction to a traumatic event. 


    Trust your instincts - if you feel that you or someone else is in immediate danger, it is crucial to seek help right away. Please call emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room for immediate assistance. 


    If it is not an immediate emergency but you still feel the need for urgent support, please reach out to our crisis services. We are here to help.

  • Why go to the emergency room?

    Going to the emergency room is necessary if you are in a situation of immediate danger or experiencing a severe mental health crisis. The emergency room is equipped to provide immediate medical and psychiatric care, and can ensure your safety and the safety of others. 


    Situations that warrant a visit to the emergency room include, but are not limited to, having thoughts of harming yourself or others, experiencing severe panic or anxiety, having a psychotic episode, or experiencing a sudden and intense reaction to a traumatic event. If you are unsure about whether your situation is an emergency, it is always better to err on the side of caution and seek immediate help. Your safety and well-being are of the utmost importance.

  • What can I expect when I go to the emergency room?

    When you go to the emergency room for a mental health crisis, you can expect to be treated with compassion and respect. Here is a general outline of what might happen:

    1. Triage: This is the initial assessment where a healthcare professional will assess the severity of your condition and determine the level of care you need. They will ask you questions about your current situation, medical history, and any medications you are taking.
    2. Assessment: A healthcare professional, often a nurse or a doctor, will conduct a more detailed assessment. They will ask you about your mental health history, the nature of your current crisis, any thoughts of self-harm or suicide, and any substance use.
    3. Treatment: Based on your assessment, a treatment plan will be developed. This could involve medication, referral to a mental health specialist, or admission to the hospital for further observation and treatment.
    4. Discharge or Admission: If you are stable and it is deemed safe for you to leave, you may be discharged with a treatment plan and follow-up appointments. If it is determined that you need more intensive care, you may be admitted to the hospital.

    Remember, it is important to be honest and open about your feelings and symptoms so that the healthcare professionals can provide the best possible care. Your safety and well-being are the top priority.