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
DEVELOPING 122 active wildfires burning across Canada, 32 considered 'out of control'
The 2024 wildfire season has begun, and it's shaping up to follow last year's unprecedented destruction in kind, with thousands of square kilometres already consumed.
B.C. parents sentenced to 15 years for death of 6-year-old boy
A British Columbia Supreme Court judge has sentenced the mother and stepfather of a six-year-old boy who died from blunt-force trauma in 2018 to 15 years in prison.
Veteran TSN sportscaster Darren Dutchyshen has died
Veteran TSN broadcaster Darren 'Dutch' Dutchyshen, one of Canada’s best-known sports journalists, has died. He was 57. His family says 'he passed as he was surrounded by his closest loved ones.'
Miller scores late as Canucks grind out 3-2 win over Oilers in Game 5
J.T. Miller scored in the final minute of the game and the Vancouver Canucks came back for a 3-2 victory over the Edmonton Oilers in Game 5 of their second-round playoff series Thursday.
Think twice before sharing 'heartbreaking' social media posts, RCMP warn
Mounties in B.C. are urging people to think twice before sharing "heartbreaking posts" on social media.
Police issue Canada-wide warrant for Regina homicide suspect
Police have issued a Canada-wide warrant for a man wanted in a homicide which occurred in Regina on May 12.
Trudeau calls New Brunswick's Conservative government a 'disgrace' on women's rights
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau assailed New Brunswick's premier and other conservative leaders on Thursday, calling out the provincial government's position on abortion, LGBTQ youth and climate change.
Kevin Spacey receives star support as he fights to get his career back
Kevin Spacey is pushing back on the 'rush to judgment' against him and is being backed by some big names as he seeks to reclaim his acting career.
Speaker cuts ties with Sask. Party, alleges he faced threats, harassment from gov't MLAs
The Speaker of the Saskatchewan Legislature Randy Weekes has severed ties with the Sask. Party after accusing some members of harassment and intimidation tactics, including a situation he claimed saw the Government House Leader bring a hunting rifle to the legislative building.