World Mental Health Day, on Wednesday, October 10, is dedicated to raising global awareness about mental health issues and mobilize efforts in support of mental health. We’ve complied a list of local mental health resources for older adults. If ever in immediate danger or crisis, call 911.
Local / In-Person & Community Supports
| Organization / Service | What they offer |
| Seniors Mental Health Service – West Park Healthcare Centre | In-home mental health assessment; care planning; linking to community services; education & support. For people aged 60+ in community or retirement residences. More information HERE. |
| Geriatric Mental Health – North York General Hospital | Comprehensive mental health services to address the unique needs of older adults that include psychiatry inpatient program, outpatient services, and outpatients outreach team. More information HERE. |
| North York Community Mental Health Resource List | A compiled list of local mental health services in North York, including culturally specific, free, and more general services. Useful to see what’s near you. More information HERE |
| LOFT Community Services (formerly IPOP in York Region) | LOFT provides mental health services, addictions support, and supportive housing for youth, adults, and seniors in Ontario. More information HERE. |
| Circle of Care | Circle of Care offers client and family counselling. More information HERE. |
| Toronto Seniors Helpline | Over-the-phone support includes emotional support, crisis help, counseling, referrals. More information HERE. |
Online / Telephone Resources & Supports
| Resource | What it offers |
| Canadian Coalition for Seniors’ Mental Health (CCSMH) | Online resources, toolkits, education for seniors and caregivers; guidance on issues like dementia, depression, anxiety. More information HERE. |
| NICE (National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly) | Library of online videos, infographics, information tools tailored to senior mental health. More information HERE. |
| City of Toronto / 211 Central | Central referral line: can call 211 to get connected to services in your area. Useful when you’re not sure what’s available. More information HERE. |
| BounceBack (CMHA-Ontario) | Free guided self-help program (phone + online) for mild to moderate depression/anxiety. More information HERE. |
Things to Consider / How to Access
- Referrals: Some services require a doctor, family or care provider referral; others allow self-referral. Good to ask.
- Cost: Many programs listed here are free for seniors, especially public ones. But private counselling might cost extra.
- Language & Culture: If you want resources in a specific language or culturally relevant supports, many community agencies in North York do that. The North York Community Mental Health Resource List includes culturally specific services.
