A 24/7 crisis and support line launched Aug. 23 is bringing faster access to the most appropriate supports for those living in London, Middlesex, Oxford and Elgin counties. Reach Out – a partnership project of CMHA Middlesex, Elgin and Oxford branches and Addiction Services of Thames Valley – is providing crisis service, supportive listening, information and appointments with mental health or addictions professionals.
All calls are answered by trained information and referral specialists, backed by a robust database of local service information.
Staff first work with callers in crisis to deescalate the crisis. Callers requiring less urgent service or treatment options receive an appointment or a follow up call or email within 48 business hours by the most appropriate local service agency. Staff also offer brief intervention therapy, followed by a warm transfer to the newly established Support Line volunteer team at CMHA Middlesex if supportive listening is the most appropriate option.
The development of Reach Out is motivated by best practices and the desire to provide individuals with addiction concerns and mental health needs with timely, seamless access to appropriate services. Reach Out is funded by the South West Local Health Integration Network.
To access Reach Out, please call 519-433-2023 or 1-866-933-2023, visit www.reachout247.ca or contact info@reachout247.ca.