AHS offers text message-based mental health service in more languages
A small ray of hope is only a text message away and now, in even more languages.
Text4Hope is an evidence-based tool available to Albertans struggling with mental health during the pandemic, Alberta Health Services says. The service helps people identify and adjust negative feelings, thoughts, and behaviours through daily messages in the form of advice and helpful encouragement.
Launched in March of 2020 in English, AHS is expanding the languages the service is offered in to help people cope with stress and anxiety caused by the pandemic.
The text-based service is available to Albertans at no cost, although standard message rates from a phone carrier may apply. It lasts three months, and users can resubscribe if they feel they need or want to continue the service.
The initiative was founded by Dr. Vincent Agyapong, a psychiatrist and professor at the University of Alberta. It was inspired by a similar service developed in 2016 for Albertans experiencing anxiety and depression during the Fort McMurray wildfires.
It’s now available in Arabic, French, Simplified Chinese and Punjabi.
“We know many people are struggling, and it can be difficult to reach people who speak English as a second language,” Agyapong said in a statement.
According to AHS, 54,000 people have subscribed to Text4Hope since the program started.
“Inclusivity is important. Text4Hope in multiple languages will help us provide a unique support to Albertans,” says Dr. Nicholas Mitchell, provincial medical director for addiction and mental health.
If you wish to subscribe, text COVID19HOPE to 393939 for the English messages.
For the four additional languages, text one of the keywords to +1-855-947-4673 (+1-855-947-HOPE):
- Arabic Program Name: تيكست فور هوب
- Simplified Chinese Program Name: 文本4希望
- French Program Name: TextoEspoir
- Punjabi Program Name: ਟੈਕਸਟ4ਹੋਪ
For more information about the service, visit Text4Hope’s website.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
4th Indian national arrested, charged with murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar
Homicide investigators in B.C. say murder charges have been laid against a fourth Indian national in connection to the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a Surrey gurdwara last year.
Man ticketed after allegedly trespassing again at Drake's Bridle Path mansion to get his bike
A man who tried to access Drake’s Bridle Path mansion earlier this week returned to the property Saturday and was apprehended again for allegedly trespassing, Toronto police say.
Switzerland's Nemo wins 68th Eurovision Song Contest
Swiss singer Nemo won the 68th Eurovision Song Contest on Saturday night with 'The Code,' an operatic ode to the singer’s journey toward embracing their nongender identity.
Wildfire that forced evacuation of Fort Nelson, B.C., caused by tree falling on wires, mayor says
The wildfire that prompted the evacuation of more than 3,000 people near Fort Nelson, B.C., was caused by a tree falling on wires, according to the municipality's mayor.
Couple randomly attacked, 1 stabbed, by group of teens in Toronto, police say
A man has been transported to hospital after police say he was stabbed in a random attack carried out by a group of teens in Toronto on Friday night.
Israel orders new evacuations in Gaza's last refuge of Rafah as it expands military offensive
Israel ordered new evacuations in Gaza's southern city of Rafah on Saturday, forcing tens of thousands more people to leave as it prepared to expand its military operation deeper into what is considered Gaza’s last refuge.
'I am angry': Alberta farmers will continue fight over world class motorsport resort
The rolling hills leading to the hamlet of Rosebud are dotted with sprawling farms and cattle pastures -- and a sign sporting a simple message: No Race Track.
IN PICTURES Northern lights dance across the night sky in southern Ont.
From London, to Grand Bend, Collingwood and Guelph, here are some highlights of Friday night and Saturday morning's northern lights display.
Ron Ellis, who played over 1,000 games with Maple Leafs, dead at 79
Ron Ellis, who played over 1,000 games with the Toronto Maple Leafs and was a member of Canada's team at the 1972 Summit Series, has died at age 79.