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• Refugee Health Services

I came to Canada as a refugee. What mental health services can I get?

Many people who claim refugee status in Canada have experienced war, violence, torture or other kinds of trauma. Some people who experience trauma also have:

• Fear of authority
• Problems trusting other people
• Memory loss
• Depression and anxiety

It may be difficult to establish a new life in Canada. It may be difficult to communicate with government officials or other people. You may find that counselling can help you.

The Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture (CCVT) is a non-profit organization that can help you integrate into Canadian society. CCVT has doctors, lawyers and social workers who provide legal, medical and social services. CCVT also has English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) classes, music and art therapy and support groups.

IG Vital Health Services offers psychotherapy services that are performed by registered and licensed psychotherapists and psychologists. Their services may be covered by different insurance providers, government programs, including, the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) for those that are eligible. They are based in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

ReNu Counselling and Psychotherapy offers counselling and psychotherapy services that are performed by a Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Counsellor. Their services may be covered by different insurance providers, government programs, including, the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) for those that are eligible. They serve only those currently living in Ontario.

Resources for Syrian Refugees

Below is a list of resources specific for refugees from Syria.

• Health Care Coverage for Syrian Refugees - A list of the health care services that are covered for Syrian refugees under the IFH program. From Lifeline Syria.
• Refugee HealthLine - Call this line (1-866-286-4770), for free, to register for help in being connected with a health service provider who can assist with initial medical assessments and referral to other health services. This is not an emergency or crisis line.
• Community Resources for Immigrant and Refugee Youth - This is a list of  services for immigrant and refugee youth across Canada. From the Canadian Paediatric Society.
• Tip Sheets for Caregivers - These tip sheets are for caregivers of Syrian refugee children. They have information about  recognizing culture shock, helping children cope with stress and how to welcome children into daycare settings. From CMAS Canada.

Find more information in Where can I get help with my mental health?

Many settlement agencies can help you find mental health and other services that you need. To find help, go to Services Near Me and search for "community health centres" or "crisis lines" in your area.

For More Information

• Mental Health Helpline - This free, confidential phone line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They provide information about mental health services in Ontario. Information is available in over 170 languages. Information by email or web chat is also available.
• Information on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Information about the signs of PTSD and where you can get help. From the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.
• Mental Health & Addiction Information - Links to information and resources about mental health and addiction. From the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.
• Alone in Canada: 21 Ways to Make it Better - Information for single newcomers to Canada. You can get it in more than 15 languages. From the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.
• Children's Mental Health Centres - This portal can help you find the nearest treatment centre for children's mental health problems. From Children's Mental Health Ontario.