The holiday season can be a bittersweet time of year. On the one hand, it can be a time spent with friends and family. On the other, it can emphasize what we are struggling with — including feeling lonely or the stress of dealing with financial strain. 

However you are feeling, it’s important to know that you aren’t alone. Asking for help or knowing that you need help is an important step in the right direction. There is free support available, and connecting with crisis counsellors at Calgary Public Library’s Wellness Desk is a great starting point.  

A Partnership with the Library and Wood’s Homes 

Wood's Homes is a well-established mental health centre that provides treatment and support for children, young people, adults, and families with mental health challenges. It has a mission to help build good mental health and well-being so everyone can thrive in their community. 

In 2020, the Library partnered with Wood’s Homes and created the Wellness Desk, which is now available at two Library locations. Knowing that there are often wait lists or high fees for mental health services, the Wellness Desk was created to provide free, drop-in, and on-demand mental health and addictions support, health information, and referral services. 

“Our partnership with the Calgary Public Library reflects a shared commitment to making mental health support accessible and immediate,” said Wood’s Homes CEO, Bjorn Johansson. “The Wellness Desk ensures that anyone who walks through those doors can find a Crisis Counsellor who is ready to listen, guide, and connect them with the help and resources they need — right when they need it.” 

Library members can speak with crisis counsellors from Wood’s Homes to help find the vital resources, supports, and referrals they need. Over 99% of individuals using the Wellness Desk said they got the help they needed, and over 97% said they had a clear next step.    

Access the Wellness Desk  

If you haven’t used mental health supports before, you aren’t the only one. For over half of Wellness Desk visitors, their first visit is the first time they have ever accessed mental health support resources. 

For Wellness Desk hours at Central and Crowfoot libraries, visit calgarylibrary.ca/wellness-desk.  

After-hours support is available by calling or texting with a Wood's Homes mental health professional. This free service is available by calling 403.299.9699 (available 8:00 am – 11:00 pm) or texting 587.315.5000 (available 9:00 am – 10:00 pm). 

This initiative is generously supported by BMO Financial Group, Boone-Poole Family Foundation, the City of Calgary, and donors of the Calgary Public Library Foundation.