I would have asked for help, but I don’t know how
Do you need help but aren’t sure how to ask for it? You're not alone. Find the information and resources you need to help you do just that.
Asking yourself the right questions
Here are some questions you can ask yourself to find who is the best person to help you right now:
💭 Am I ready to talk about it, or would I rather read about it and find the answers on my own?
💭 Do I want advice from someone who is going through the same thing as me, or from someone who will have an objective view of my situation?
💭 If I speak to a professional, do I want to talk about a specific, current situation, or do I want to talk about something that I’ve been dealing with for a long time?
💭 If I speak to a professional, am I looking for long-term help (over several months), or for a particular period (right now)?
💭 Would I prefer talking to someone who is part of my environment (e.g., at school), or in a neutral location (e.g., a private office)?
💭 Am I in an emergency situation that requires immediate assistance? For example, is my life or someone else’s life in danger? If yes, call 911.
These are questions you may not have the answers to right now, and that is perfectly normal! Tel-jeunes or a trusted adult are here to help you find the right resources.
I’m not sure about asking for help, what can make me change my mind?
You can start by asking yourself what is making you hesitate. Is it not knowing what to expect? Is it the fear of having to tell someone about your situation? Feeling like what you're going through isn't that bad? Know that you have the right to have concerns, and that you can always talk about them at any time with the person you’re turning to for help. They’ll be able to answer your questions and reassure you! You can also ask a trusted adult or friend to help you make an appointment.
Who should I talk to?
There are different people there for you during more difficult times or when you feel the need to talk.
You can rely on the people close to you (like friends, family, trusted adults) or other people who are going through the same things as you (on a forum, in discussion groups on social media, etc.). Sometimes the help of trusted adults (an adult you would feel comfortable sharing your feelings with, such as a teacher, a family member, a neighbour, a coach) or professionals is necessary.
When should you turn to a trusted adult?
👉 You’re dealing with a situation that’s making you feel very worried or uncomfortable.
👉 You haven’t been feeling well for a while or you feel like you’re getting worse.
👉 You’ve tried many things to feel better and nothing has worked.
👉 You feel discouraged and no longer feel like you can overcome what you’re going through.
👉 Your safety or another’s is at risk.
Where can I find professional help?
Online 🤳
Many community organizations offer content online that has information on various subjects, and some may even suggest that you speak with a counsellor about what you’re going through. You can find this kind of service at Tel-jeunes. 😊
At school 🎒
You can find several types of professionals there, depending on your school: counselling professionals (counsellors, psychologists, psychoeducators, special education technicians, sexologists, etc.), professionals to help with any learning and academic difficulties, and nurses (for questions about contraception or STBBIs, for example).
In youth centres 🏠
These are places for 12–17-year-olds where you can go from time to time to meet others who are your age, participate in various workshops, and talk with trusted adults. Some youth centres also offer help with homework and serve meals.
At a CLSC 🏢
Many professionals are available through the CLSC: psychologists, social workers, sexologists, psychoeducators, and many others. You must be registered on a waiting list to consult them for free for a short-term period (a few weeks). If you’re interested, talk to your parents, or contact us.
With your family doctor 🧑⚕️
If you’re really struggling, have questions about your mental health, or want to start or change the dosage of a medication, this is the person to talk to. Speaking with a family doctor is often a good way to learn about the services available to you. Along with psychologists, they are the only professionals who can diagnose a mental health problem.
In a private office 🛋️
This is a good option when you want to have sessions with a professional that are long-term (like a psychologist, for example). If you are under 14 years old, you must have your parents' permission. You’ll have to make an appointment and there is a cost, but it can be reimbursed if your parents have insurance that covers this type of service. Talk to them to find out more.
