Immediate Crisis Support
24/7 emergency contacts for immediate help
Emergency Services
For life-threatening emergencies, overdose, or immediate danger
24/7 Emergency Response
BC Mental Health Crisis Line
24/7 mental health crisis support for British Columbia residents
24/7 Available
Crisis Text Line
Text-based crisis support in English and French
24/7 Text Support
Canada Suicide Prevention Service
National suicide prevention hotline with trained responders
24/7 Available | Text: 45645
Local Duncan & Cowichan Valley Crisis Services
Emergency support services in our community
Cowichan District Hospital - Emergency
3045 Gibbins Road, Duncan, BC V9L 1E5
24/7 emergency department with mental health crisis support and medical care.
Emergency: 911
Main Line: (250) 737-2030
Island Health Mental Health Crisis
238 Government Street, Duncan, BC V9L 1A5
Urgent mental health assessment and crisis intervention services for Cowichan Valley residents.
Crisis Line: 1-888-494-3888
Local: (250) 746-5850
Warmland Women's Support Services
24-Hour Crisis Line
Emergency shelter and crisis support for women and children fleeing violence or abuse.
24hr Crisis Line: (250) 746-1212
Office: (250) 746-1227
VictimLink BC
Provincial support service
24/7 support for victims of crime and trauma, including family violence and sexual assault.
Phone: 1-800-563-0808
Text: 604-836-6381
Specialized Crisis Support
Targeted support for specific populations and situations
Kids Help Phone
Crisis support for children, teens, and young adults under 30.
Phone: 1-800-668-6868
Text: CONNECT to 686868
Indigenous Crisis Line
Culturally-sensitive crisis support for Indigenous peoples across Canada.
Phone: 1-855-242-3310
Trans Lifeline
Peer support hotline for transgender and questioning individuals.
Canada: 1-877-330-6366
US: 1-877-565-8860
HeadsUpGuys
Support and resources for men experiencing depression and suicidal thoughts.
Website: headsupguys.org
Senior's Crisis Line
Crisis support specifically for seniors and elderly individuals.
BC: 1-866-306-0033
Overdose Prevention Line
Support for those using substances alone. Staff can call 911 if needed.
Phone: 1-888-688-6677
Warning Signs of Crisis
If you or someone you know shows these signs, seek help immediately:
- Talking about wanting to die or hurt oneself
- Looking for ways to end one's life
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no purpose
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious, agitated, or reckless
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Displaying extreme mood swings
- Giving away prized possessions
How to Help Someone in Crisis
If someone you know is in crisis, here's how you can help:
- Ask directly: "Are you thinking about suicide?" It's okay to ask.
- Listen without judgment: Let them share their feelings.
- Take it seriously: Don't dismiss their feelings or minimize the situation.
- Don't leave them alone: Stay with them if they're in immediate danger.
- Remove means: Help remove access to lethal means (medications, weapons).
- Get professional help: Call crisis lines or take them to emergency services.
- Follow up: Check in regularly and continue to show support.
- Take care of yourself: Supporting someone in crisis is difficult - seek support too.
Create a Safety Plan
A safety plan is a personalized guide that helps you get through difficult moments. It includes:
Warning Signs
Identify thoughts, feelings, or situations that trigger a crisis for you.
Coping Strategies
List things you can do on your own to feel better (exercise, music, hobbies).
Social Supports
People and places that provide distraction and support during difficult times.
Professional Contacts
Healthcare providers, therapists, and crisis lines you can contact.
Make Environment Safe
Remove or limit access to lethal means (medications, weapons, etc.).
Reasons for Living
List the most important reasons you have for staying alive.
Additional Crisis Resources
Canadian Mental Health Assoc.
Mental health resources, support groups, and educational materials.
Visit WebsiteYou Are Not Alone
Crisis support is available 24/7. Reach out for help - your life matters.