If this is an emergency and there is risk of harm or safety, call 911. Let the call taker know that this is a “child/youth mental health emergency”. If there is a mental health team available in your area, they might attend as well.
Some BC communities have mental health crisis teams that can respond to children and youth in urgent need. Often this is for times when they are having a rapid onset of extreme mental health symptoms.
Each response team is different. Some teams will respond very quickly and others may respond within 24 hours. Some programs may require a referral and could take up to a few days. You can usually expect to speak to someone or hear back quickly.
They provide some assessment and short-term intervention services. There may be services that can come directly to the home depending on the situation and the program.
If you are already connected with a community mental health team, you will be sent back to that team for services and support.
See below for what is available in your health authority. Click on the web links for program details. You can also contact the Kelty Centre for more information.
