Caring connection: new, central service links people to mental health and substance use resources

People in the Island Health region can now call a single telephone number to access a broad array of community-based services focused on mental health and substance use.

The Mental Health and Substance Use (MHSU) Service Link helps people connect to information and services in their community. People seeking information can phone 1-888-885-8824 seven days a week to speak directly with a call taker.

Health care plays a crucial role in connecting people who use substances with the resources they need to achieve better health outcomes. Service Link helps people navigate and connect to the right resources, including harm reduction services, drug-poisoning prevention, addiction medicine (opioid agonist therapy, prescribed safer supply and other medication options), withdrawal management, and treatment and recovery services. 

Please note that Service Link is a navigation tool – call takers are not trained to provide emotional support or crisis intervention. If you are experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis, please call the Vancouver Island Crisis Line, available 24/7: 1-888-494-3888. 

Information and services:
•    Island Health: Mental Health & Substance Use Services
•    BC Government: Wellbeing.gov.bc.ca
•    Service Link: 1-888-885-8824