...And then everything changed. Following the violence and tragedy in Colchester County our province has been shaken to the core by fear, anger and unbearable sadness. It's difficult to know how to move forward. Whether we are mourning the loss of a friend or relative, supporting someone else that did, or sharing in the collective grief, and disbelief, that we feel as a province, we all seem changed in some way.
And yet, what seems to not have changed is the quality of love, caring and generosity of spirit of our community. In recent days I have been walking, biking and jogging through the streets of Dartmouth North and I have seen much love and support expressed in many ways: signs in windows, Nova Scotia flags on doorsteps, tartan ribbons tied in trees along a whole street, and hearts and other messages of love on telephone poles and sidewalks. These are all ways of saying “even though we have to be apart, we are together”, and they are truly wonderful to see.
Here are some ways you can remember, mourn, and support the families of those who were killed April 18th and 19th:
You can add your condolences to the the government's book of condolences for the victims of last weekend's violence on the Stronger Together Facebook page or by emailing condolences@novascotia.ca. You can also access Stronger Together social media profile pictures, cover photos, and shareable graphics here.
The Government of Nova Scotia is working with the Canadian Red Cross to provide financial support to the individuals, families and communities impacted by last weekend's violence with immediate and long-term needs. If you are able, please donate here.
The Nova Scotia RCMP Major Crime Unit has launched a tip line to collect information about the incidents on April 18 and 19. The tip line can be reached at 902-720-5959 or toll-free at 1-833-570-0121. If you get the voicemail, please leave a detailed message along with your name and contact information and an investigator will get back to you.
Here are some places you can go if you need mental health support following the tragedy in Colchester county:
The Association of Psychologists of NS (APNS), Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness and Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) are collaborating to increase support to Nova Scotians impacted by the tragic events of April 18 and 19.
A roster of psychologists across Nova Scotia is offering a FREE service called Psychological Support Session. Call 902-422-9183, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday, to arrange a Psychological Support Session appointment with a psychologist within 48 hours.
Mental Health Crisis Line 1-888-429-8167.
Nova Scotia Mental Health and Addictions Services: Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM 1-855-922-1122
Nova Scotia Grief Counselling Services 902-473-3119. More information here.
Kids Help Phone The Kids Help Phone has opened up their lines to adults and children affected by the tragedy. Text NSstrong to 741741. Kids call 1-800-668-686 or text CONNECT to 686868.
Morneau Shepell has also opened its 24/7 bilingual crisis support line to help anyone in need of emotional support as a result of these tragic events. Their number is 1-844-751-2133.
Wellness Together Canada provides tools and resources for addressing low mood, worry, substance use, social isolation, and relationship issues.
Healthy Minds Cooperative (Dartmouth) 902-404-3504 or on Facebook here.
Self Help Connection 902-466-2011 or on Facebook here.
Peer Support Nova Scotia is holding weekly online peer support groups for folks struggling with their mental health, for youth, and those with addictions. RSVP here.
Pause Mental Health Walk-In Clinic, located on Gottingen Street, has a toll free number you can call to set up an appointment with one of their therapists: 1-800-598-5270.
The Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA) has also launched a new service called First Responders Assist to offer short-term counselling and supportive services for first responders and their families impacted by the tragedies of April 18 and 19. First Responders Assist can be accessed by calling toll-free 1-888-429-8167 and this line is staffed by mental health professionals 24/7. More information here.