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Mental Health and Substance Use Health Newsletter
Niagara Falls Community Health Centre logo

Free Mental Health Counselling

Did you know that the Niagara Falls Community Health Centre (NFCHC) offers free mental health counselling? Their one-on-one, short term counselling services are offered by registered professionals and are available to both NFCHC primary care patients and the community.

Check it out
 
 
 
Niagara
 

Niagara Suicide Prevention Coalition Website Launch

We are excited to announce the launch of the newly updated Niagara Suicide Prevention Coalition (NSPC) website! Visitors can easily access local crisis services, educational resources, helpful tools, and it provides opportunities to get involved. The coalition's purpose is to build strong, lasting partnerships across the community to implement a coordinated suicide prevention strategy that addresses the needs of all Niagara residents and reflects the values of a caring and compassionate community. Together, we are building hope and connection for a safer, healthier Niagara. 

Visit the NSPC Website
 
 
 
Image of a river running along side a forest with the caption "Get your nature prescription today. Nature is Health"
 

Niagara Region Public Health Endorses National Nature Prescription Program

Niagara Region Public Health has officially endorsed PaRX, Canada's national, evidence-based nature prescription program. This endorsement supports an innovative, holistic approach to health and preventative care, incorporating the proven benefits of nature in supporting physical and mental well-being.

Individuals with a nature prescription can access five free visits to Niagara Peninsula watershed conservation areas where parking fees normally apply.

Learn more and register to become a prescriber
 
 
 
Image of the Memorial Forest name plate and rock garden.
 

Memorial Forest Vigil 2025

Every October, a Memorial Forest Vigil takes place during Mental Illness Awareness Week. The Memorial Forest offers a time to remember those who have passed on after a courageous battle with mental illness. The Vigil provides an opportunity to share stories of hope and success, and includes a variety of music, lived experience speakers, readings and much more. The community is welcome to attend this event on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 from 3 - 4 p.m. No registration is required. 

Learn more
 
 
Family Mental Health Support Network of Niagara logo

The Family Mental Health Support Network of Niagara

The Family Mental Health Support Network of Niagara provides programs and services at no cost to support families who themselves are supporting a loved one with a serious mental illness. Offerings include the foundational "Coping Skills Group", which educates families to better understand the illness, remain appropriately supportive during crises and appreciate systemic nuances in the healthcare system. We offer online book clubs on current and classic mental health topics, mindfulness practice sessions on Monday nights and counselling with our team of social workers. You can also join our in-person Mindful Nature Walks on Saturdays and Guided Forest Therapy on Sundays. Other groups come available from time to time. 

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Check out the programs
 
Image of Distress Centre Suicide Walk vigil candle.
Learn more and get involved

World Suicide Prevention Day - September 10

In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day, Distress Centre Niagara held their 20th Annual Suicide Awareness Walk at St. Cathartines Market Square on September 10. Each year this walk is held to show support of suicide prevention efforts, to remember and celebrate the lives of those who have died by suicide, to comfort those who grieve the loss of a loved one to suicide and to strengthen community connection and awareness. 

 

 
Click here to learn more

Canada's National Addictions Awareness Week 2025

National Addictions Awareness Week (November 16 - 22, 2025) spotlights solutions and conversations around the harms associated with alcohol and drug use. CASON will have several events going on this week. Check out our social media for more information in the coming days. Anchored in the theme "Anchoring Hope", this week encourages communities, individuals and organizations to come together to explore prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction rooted in compassion and evidence. 

 
 
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Niagara Region
1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way
Thorold, ON, L2V 4T7
905-980-6000, Toll-free: 1-800-263-7215
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