With Stacy Ashton, Executive Director of Crisis Centre of B.C
In episode four of the Calltime Mental Health Podcast, Gregg Taylor is joined by Stacy Ashton, Executive Director of the Crisis Centre of B.C., to discuss the critical work being done to support individuals in crisis across Canada, and in British Columbia in particular. The Crisis Centre of BC provides 24/7 support to anyone wanting to talk about their mental health through two phone lines:
988 (simply dial or text 988 from any phone): This is the Canada-wide phone line for suicide crisis support. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or intentions call this line to gain immediate support.
310-6789 BC Mental Health & Crisis Response ( no area code needed): This is BC’s Mental Health crisis line offering emotional support and information on appropriate referral options, for a wide range of mental health concerns.
In this episode, Stacy takes us through how the Crisis Centre works, emphasizing the power of peer support. Over 250 trained volunteers at the Centre are available to listen and provide empathetic, non-judgmental assistance.
As Stacy says, “Crisis is just something we as humans go through. It’s not an illness or a pathology, it’s an experience that, like it or not, you’re going to have many times in your life - you’re going to get overwhelmed. Life can just be overwhelming.”
A startling 40% of the calls the Centre receives are related to suicide, underscoring the immense need for accessible mental health resources. The Crisis Centre plays a vital role in suicide prevention, offering a safe space for individuals to talk about their struggles and receive immediate help.
Along with breaking the stigma of who should call the crisis line and when, Stacy also also shares insights into the unique challenges faced by high-pressure and cyclical industries, like the motion picture sector. Our industry often has heightened levels of uncertainty and stress, and peer support networks, including crisis lines, are crucial in preventing isolation and promoting mental wellness.
Tune in to learn more about the resources and education programs provided by the Crisis Centre of BC, and how we can all help build stronger mental health support systems and foster resilience in our communities.
Who is the Crisis Centre of BC?
The Crisis Centre of BC offers 24/7 immediate access to barrier-free, non-judgmental support via phone lines and online services, providing help and hope to individuals, organizations, and communities. Their education and training programs promote mental wellness and empower schools, organizations, and communities to assist those at risk of suicide. https://www.crisiscentre.bc.ca/
Calltime Podcast
The Calltime Mental Health podcast aims to create a safe space for open conversations, amplify important voices, and provide valuable insights into the mental health challenges faced by those working in our industry.
Season 2 of the Calltime Mental Health Podcast is your beacon of support, guiding you through the maze of seeking help and offering support to those in need.
Finding help for your mental health shouldn't feel like wandering in the dark. Whether it's therapy, medical support, or self-care practices, we'll explore the various avenues to getting the help you deserve.
The Calltime Mental Health Podcast will release a new episode throughout the fall until December. The Podcast will be accessible on popular platforms such as:
Links mentioned in the Podcast:
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