Learn about programs providing support for people who experience suicidal ideation, have survived suicide attempts, or are at risk for suicide, as well as those who care for them.
Note: This article is not a replacement for professional medical or clinical advice. We cannot provide official referrals for resources that require documented referrals from licensed service providers to access. Some resources on this website do include referral services from licensed professionals.
Suicide Attempt Follow-up, Education & Research (S.A.F.E.R.)
S.A.F.E.R is a free, time-limited counselling service operated by Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH). It works to assess and reduce the risk of suicide.
The program provides:
- Short-term counseling (6 months or less) for people aged 19+ experiencing suicidal ideation.
- Counselling (up to 1 year) for people grieving those they have lost to suicide (individual or facilitated group).
- Short term informational support (up to 3 appointments) for people currently concerned about someone who is suicidal.
- Languages: English
How can I access these resources?
- You can self-refer via phone or walk-in. You must refer or check in through the Access and Assessment Centre (AAC).
- Phone: (604) 675-3700
- Address: Vancouver General Hospital, Outpatient Psychiatry Team, Ground Floor, 715 West 12th avenue (Vancouver, BC)
Child and Adolescent Response Team (CART)
CART is provided by Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) and provides urgent response (within 72 hours), short-term mental health supports to children and youth experiencing emotional or psychiatric crises.
- Serves residents of Vancouver aged 5-18 years old.
- Services include: assessment, consultation, clinical intervention, and coordination with additional community resources.
- Clients with a private psychiatrist or already working with the VCH Child and Youth Mental Health team are not eligible for short-term treatment.
- Languages: English
How can I access these resources?
- Requires phone call to access.
- Phone: 604-874-2300
Crisis helplines
For a list of crisis helplines, please see our Helplines for Mental Health Crisis and Support page.