Virtual support groups

Online support groups are available for a wide variety of mental or physical health issues, like depression, anxiety, chronic pain, eating disorders and more. You don’t have to do this alone.

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Finding the right virtual support can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unwell. Some people experiencing mental health issues or other health concerns prefer to access support privately and at their convenience. We’ve done some of the work for you by gathering a selection of credible, free online resources. There are people waiting for you to connect with them.

eMentalHealth.ca

Ementalhealth.ca

Many other support groups, offering services in both English and French, are listed here. You can also choose services with fees if you wish. It’s important to know you’re never alone unless you choose to be. There are people like you who want to connect with you. Many can share coping strategies that have worked for them.


Patients like me

www.patientslikeme.com

This organization seeks to improve health outcomes by providing opportunities for patients to learn from each other. Many mental health and behaviour issues are represented among the registrants. Use of the site is free, but registration is required.


All IN Family Peer Support

The entire family of someone with a mental health challenge and/or addiction can access this peer support network. To build a community of understanding, acceptance and hope All IN Family Peer Support offers these services for free:

  • One-on-one and online support groups
  • Workshops
  • Navigation of resources assistance for families

MDAO, Mood Disorders Association of Ontario

www.mooddisorders.ca

Mood Disorders of Ontario hosts online support forums to address the following issues and more:

  • Depression and anxiety
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Shyness and social anxiety

  Register for one of their groups or one-on-one peer support.


Eating disorders Nova Scotia Online Groups

Connect with others working on recovery in a supportive online space. Peer mentors and guest facilitators help participants explore new skills in a non-judgmental, pro-recovery environment. You can take part in whatever way is comfortable for you – with or without a camera and mic, or by just commenting in the chat box. These virtual workshops and information sessions are open to anyone across Canada. 


Contact us if you want to recommend evidence-based, free, online resources, in both English and French you feel would complement those on this page.

Additional resources

  • A tool to support employee success. This process engages both employee and employer to develop solutions that support productivity and well-being. Supporting employee success is for any employee, including those needing accommodation.
  • Balancing your support network. If you feel hesitant to reach out, think about how you feel when you can help someone. Many people welcome the opportunity to help. They’re also relieved to find out we all need help from time to time.
  • Getting support when you return to work. Use these tips and strategies to help you adjust to routines, re-establish social connections and reorient to job tasks. Asking for help to return to work successfully benefits both you and your employer.
  • Mental health awareness videos. People who experienced mental health issues at work talk about what helped. Their strategies and advice can act as virtual peer support and mental health awareness.
  • Peer supporters. Learn about reaching out for, or becoming, a peer supporter in the workplace. Peer supporters draw on their life experiences to help those facing similar challenges.
Contributors include:Mary Ann Baynton

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