KFL&A Public Health does not provide mental health counselling or treatment. Use our online directory to see the different types of mental health and substance use services available in the KFL&A area. Mental health and substance use support is available 24-7 through Wellness Together Canada. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the Addictions and Mental Health Services KFLA Crisis Line:
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Kingston and Frontenac: 613-544-4229 or 1-800-616-6005
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Lennox and Addington: 613-354-7388 or 1-800-267-7877
Mental health is important. It can be affected by genetics, what is currently happening in your life, your past experiences, and your access to resources and supports.
Just like your physical health, there are things you can do to feel and function at your best and to cope. It is important to recognize when additional help is needed. Getting help early can prevent things from getting worse.
View our tips on how to help children and teens take care of their mental health.
Everyday tips to take care of your mental well-being
| Sleep |
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Sleep is important for physical and mental well-being. Poor quality or too little sleep can increase stress and the risk of low mental well-being and mental illness. The length of time, the quality and timing of sleep are all important. |
| Physical activity |
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Regular physical activity has many health benefits, including improving your mood, and decreasing feelings of stress and anxiety. The most important thing to remember is to choose an activity that you find fun. |
| Outdoor activity |
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Spending time outdoors can benefit you by reducing stress and improving mood. It can also help to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, insomnia and tension headaches. |
| Healthy eating |
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Diet and nutrition are an important part of your overall health and well-being. If you feel that your relationship with food is negatively affecting your mental health, contact a registered dietitian or your health care provider. Learn more about eating disorders and disordered eating. |
| Connect with others |
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Your relationships with other people impacts your mental and physical health. Feeling isolated and lacking social support are linked to depression and a higher risk of heart disease. Good quality relationships are linked to increased self-esteem, lower stress, and even a longer life. |
| Practice mindfulness |
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Mindfulness practices can help to improve well-being and reduce stress, worry, and other uncomfortable emotions. Mindfulness practices can be learned. |
| Manage technology use |
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Too much technology and screen time can have negative effects on mental and physical health. Be mindful about your screen time. |
| Limit substance use |
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Many people think that substances (e.g., alcohol, cannabis, and tobacco) help them relax and reduce stress. However, substances can have the opposite effect. If you have concerns about your or someone else’s substance use, there are resources available or you can talk to a health care provider. |
Coping with stress and uncomfortable emotions
It’s normal to experience stress and uncomfortable emotions (e.g., worry, loneliness, and anger). There are strategies you can use to cope positively with stress and uncomfortable emotions.
| Stress |
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Taking action is the first step in managing your stress. There are many resources available and techniques that you can learn to help cope with stress. |
| Uncomfortable emotions |
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Resources to understand and cope with uncomfortable emotions (e.g., loneliness, low mood, worry, angry feelings and grief) are available through Canadian Mental Health Association, Wellness Together Canada, and Kids Help Phone. |
Coping with change and life transitions
Change is a part of life. Even changes that are planned and exciting can be stressful. There are things you can do to take care of your mental health during periods of change and life transitions.
| Transition to post-secondary school | |
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The transition to post-secondary school can be tough and stressful for some. Developing personal and professional resilience can help you adapt to potentially stressful situations. There are resources available to students to help understand mental health and what they can do to improve it, as well as how to help a friend. |
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| Pregnancy and parenting young children | |
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| Retirement | |
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Planning for a mentally health retirement is important in making a positive mental health transition to retirement. |
Identifying concerns and getting help
| Recognizing mental health concerns |
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The signs of mental health concerns are not the same for everyone. Some common signs include changes to someone’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that:
The mental health continuum can track your mental health and wellness and help you identify when to reach out for help. |
| Getting help |
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Getting help early makes recovery from a mental health concern easier and can prevent things from getting worse.
It can be hard to talk about your mental health or asking for help with your mental health. These resources can help:
If you are concerned about someone else's mental health, BeThere.org has more information on how to support someone who might be struggling. |
| Mental health services |
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For immediate help for a mental health emergency, contact Addictions and Mental Health Services 24 hour crisis line:
Use our online directory to see the different types of mental health and substance use services available in the KFL&A area. |
Supporting children and youth mental health
You can start nurturing your child’s mental health from the moment they are born.
Your child’s relationship with you is key for developing positive mental health. Learn parenting strategies that foster a strong connection.
Remember the basics – spend time outside, move your body, eat well, get enough sleep, and connect with others.
As a parent, you can help your child learn to cope with strong emotions. When children can identify their feelings and work through their emotions, they will be better able to cope with life's ups and downs. Seeing you cope with stress will teach your child how to respond to stressful situations.
Information for employers on mental well-being at work
Workplaces can take steps to create a supportive and healthy work environment for employees.