Find resources to help you better understand, cope with and/or support someone with an eating disorder or disordered eating.
Mental health emergencies
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, let an adult know who will stay with you. Consider getting support from the YSB Crisis Line by calling 613-260-2360.
If you require immediate emergency care call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. It's best to access emergency services within your province, as they will be able to connect you to resources and supports within your province that you are eligible for.
A visit to the emergency department is best for dealing with new, urgent mental health issues.
In Ontario or Quebec, call 911 or go to your local hospital emergency room.
When to come and what to expect at an Emergency Department |
CHEO's Emergency Department provides emergency mental health services for children and youth up to 17 years old. For mental health emergencies, please call 911 or visit 401 Smyth Road. There are also Emergency Departments at the Ottawa Hospital, Montfort Hospital and Queensway-Carleton Hospital. In general, children and youth should come to the Emergency Department for mental health-related concerns when:
A visit to the emergency department is best for dealing with new, urgent mental health issues. What the Emergency Department can offer:
What the Emergency Department cannot offer:
What to expect: The ED is a very busy place and we do our best to see children and youth as quickly as possible. We always see children who need urgent care first no matter when they arrive. If there is a change to your child's condition while you are waiting, please let the nurse know. Most children and youth are discharged from the Emergency Department with follow-up recommendations and a plan for care in the community. Many mental health concerns don't require a trip to the emergency department. Here are other available supports:
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Crisis lines and crisis chats
Canadians can call or text 9-8-8 to access bilingual, trauma-informed, and culturally appropriate mental health and suicide prevention support. The service is free and can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
In Ontario |
YSB's 24/7 Crisis Line & Crisis ChatThe 24/7 Crisis Line & Chat services are for children and youth ages 18 and under who are experiencing a crisis, and for parents, guardians, caregivers, friends or service providers who are concerned about a young person in crisis. For residents of Ottawa and Eastern Ontario. Crisis Line
Crisis Chat
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In Quebec |
Tel-Aide Outaouais
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Online resources
CHEO care resource: Eating Disorders information for youth
Learn about some of the common causes and signs linked to eating disorders, and find ways to support yourself through your recovery journey.
Resources for parents, caregivers and others supporting a loved one |
General information on eating disorders
Eating disorder preventionMeal supportGeneral information on mental healthParent and caregiver support |
Resources for children and youth |
General information on eating disordersGeneral information on mental healthChild and youth support |
Local counselling and support
Eating disorder counselling and support |
Ottawa and Ontario
Gatineau and Quebec |
General mental health counselling and support (may include eating disorder support) |
The following organizations offer general mental health counselling and support. In some cases, they may also be able to offering eating disorder counselling and support - we encourage you to check each organization's website to see what services are currently offered. Ottawa
Ontario (rural areas outside Ottawa)
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