Youth & Family Services

Providing support, counselling, and educational programs to help youth and families manage mental health challenges and build resilience.

Adult Integrated Services

CMHA believes that good mental health is essential to overall health and well-being. Whether you are managing a mental illness, supporting someone you care about, or looking to build your own overall health, we can help you.

Housing & Financial Stability

Stronger mental health starts with stability. CMHA offers support to access housing and income, easing daily stress and opening the door to recovery.

Be the reason someone feels:

Seen

Safe

Heard

Worthy

Be the reason someone reaches out

Donate today and make a positive impact on many lives

 

Suicide Grief Support Group for Youth

Grieving a loss to suicide is deeply challenging—but you don’t have to go through it alone. This peer-led support group brings together youth with shared experiences to foster healing, connection, and resilience.

Suicide Grief Support Group

Are you grieving a loss due to suicide?

Losing a loved one to suicide can be one of the most traumatic experiences of our lives.

Support is available.

The Land is Medicine

“Land is a determinant of health for Indigenous peoples.” Source: The Lancet

In Okanagan the land is called: tmxʷulaxʷ (tm-hu-lao). Meaning – Mother Earth.

The land is not property. The land is medicine.

PROGRAMS & SERVICES

Featured Post

Join the 2025 PGA Teach-a-thon

Making an impact, one swing at a time. Join the PGA of BC’s Teach-a-thon for Mental Health and change the lives of people in your local community living with mental health challenges! The PGA of BC and the Canadian Mental Health Association are teaming up to bring golf lessons to keen learners, while also supporting local mental health services. The Teach-a-thon is an exciting fundraising competition for all PGA of...
Read More
Media Releases

Mental health supports address impact of climate emergencies in Interior

From wildfires and floods to extreme weather events, climate emergencies are increasingly disrupting communities and affecting people's well-being. To address the profound and lasting mental health impacts of climate-related disasters, Canadian Mental Health Association branches in the Interior and northern B.C. are working closely together to create a network of support. “We are no stranger to wildfire, flood and heat domes in the North Okanagan and...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

Founder participating in Ride Don’t Hide

Ride Don’t Hide founder participating in North Okanagan Event The founder of the Ride Don’t Hide movement will be attending the North Okanagan event in support of youth mental health services. Michael Schratter will be at the Ride Don’t Hide hosted by Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District June 8 at Creekside Park in Coldstream. "I'm coming back to my hometown and I'm excited to...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

Ride Don’t Hide supports youth mental health

Ride Don’t Hide provides support for youth mental health There’s a month left to get your bike out in support of youth mental health. Ride Don’t Hide is hosted by Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District June 8 at Creekside Park in Coldstream. Registration is underway at ridedonthide.com/vernon “With less than a month left for people to register for Ride Don’t Hide, it’s exciting to...
Read More
saʔtitkʷ honoured with King Charles III Coronation Medal
Featured Post Local News

saʔtitkʷ honoured with King Charles III Coronation Medal

A passionate advocate for justice and the community has received a prestigious honour. Margaret Clark - saʔtitkʷ, manager of restorative justice for the Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District, was presented with a King Charles III Coronation Medal April 24, 2025. “I feel humbled and grateful for being honoured in this way. I think of my work as mostly being behind the scenes with an individual...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

Special events for Mental Health Week

North Okanagan residents have an opportunity to come together, have some fun and create awareness about mental health. On May 8, 2025, Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District will hold two special events as part of Mental Health Week. “We are excited to bring the community together as a way of shattering stigma around mental health and creating connections with those around us,” said Julia...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

New director brings wealth of community experience

Vernon, BC – New director of fund development brings wealth of community experience An experienced fundraiser and community advocate is joining Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon and District. Vicki Proulx is CMHA Vernon’s new director of development and communication. “We are excited to have Vicki join our team,” said Julia Payson, executive director of the Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon and District. “Vicki has a strong...
Read More
Register now for Ride Don’t Hide
Featured Post Local News

Register now for Ride Don’t Hide

Ride Don’t Hide is back for another year and cyclists have a chance to support youth mental health services in the North Okanagan. Ride Don’t Hide is hosted by Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District June 8 at Creekside Park in Coldstream. Registration is now open at ridedonthide.com/vernon “So many people look forward to Ride Don’t Hide and it has become a tradition in our...
Read More
Watkin Motors Ford Presents Thankful Thursday.
Local News

Watkin Motors Ford Presents Thankful Thursday.

CMHA Vernon & District is honoured to be the charity of choice for Watkin Motors Ford Presents Thankful Thursday. The film will be Bring It On, a cult classic that centers around two high school cheerleading teams' preparation for a national competition. May 6 at 6:30 p.m. Vernon Towne Theatre 100% of the Box Office profits from the screening will go directly to CMHA Vernon. You can purchase...
Read More
Uncategorized

HOLIDAY HOURS CMHA VERNON & DISTRICT

The holiday season means a few changes for CMHA Vernon's administration and programs office. Dec. 24 - Open 8 to 12 Dec. 25 - Closed Dec. 26 - Closed Dec. 27 - Closed Dec. 30 - Open 8 to 4 Dec. 31 - Open 8 to 12 Jan. 1 - Closed Jan. 2 - Open 8 to 4 Jan. 3 - Open 8 to 4 For...
Read More
Uncategorized

Mental Health Tips for the Holidays

CMHA Vernon provides mental health tips for the holidays Amidst the celebrations, hectic pace and joy associated with the holidays, depression, grief, and anxiety can be the reality for many. The Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District is encouraging residents to include mental health when preparing for the festive season. “The festivities come with high expectations of perfection, but we know that pressure is something...
Read More
Uncategorized

North Okanagan Restorative Justice Services

New office location for North Okanagan Restorative Justice Services North Okanagan residents will continue to be served by Restorative Justice Services in a new location.   Restorative Justice Services, operated by the Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District, has moved from the City of Vernon Community Safety Office to the People Place at 3402 27th Avenue.   “We are excited to continue the important work...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

North Okanagan can support youth mental health

North Okanagan residents can provide hope to local youth and families navigating the very real challenges of mental health. During the holidays, the Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District is asking the community to provide much-needed resources for the Youth Integrated Services Hub (YISH). “The festive season is about coming together and celebrating. But many families are struggling with the uncertainty created by mental health...
Read More
Featured Post Media Releases

CMHA report finds the state of mental health in Canada alarming

Through a first-of-its-kind report, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is providing an in-depth look at the mental health system in Canada and how people are faring in every province and territory. Among the findings of The State of Mental Health in Canada 2024 is that no jurisdiction is spending enough on mental health, in part because they’re not obliged to. Provinces and territories are only...
Read More
Uncategorized

Committed to serving community

CMHA Vernon remains committed to serving community The Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District continues to innovate to ensure the need for mental health support in the North Okanagan is addressed. CMHA Vernon held its annual general meeting Sept. 24, 2024, and it was an opportunity to review the organization’s activities during 2023/24. “It’s inspiring to see how the organization continues to evolve to provide...
Read More
Uncategorized

World Suicide Prevention Month

World Suicide Prevention Month Shifts Discussion from Silence to Openness Vernon, BC – North Okanagan residents have an opportunity to honour loss, raise awareness, and access education about suicide prevention. Sept. 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day. Throughout September, CMHA Vernon’s crisis intervention and prevention team will spread awareness in the community through educational opportunities, media appearances, memorial activities, and lots of honest, open conversations. “Connection...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

Wildfire-Related Mental Health

Learn how to navigate wildfire-related mental health concerns Vernon, BC – Just the very thought of wildfire, smoky skies and potential evacuation can have a significant impact on mental health. However, several techniques can help lessen the anxiety. On Aug. 15, the public is invited to attend Ahead of the Fire, a one-hour session where you can learn how to prepare your mental health for wildfire....
Read More
Media Releases

Awakening the Spirit Art Show 2024

Awakening the Spirit Art Show opens discussion on mental health Vernon, BC – North Okanagan residents can celebrate local artists who are using creativity to express their mental health journeys and to ignite community conversations on mental health. The Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District will host the annual Awakening the Spirit Art Show & Sale July 25 to Aug. 20 at the Vernon Community...
Read More
Media Releases

9-8-8 Milestone

9-8-8 six-month anniversary highlights key role of Vernon responders. The Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District is providing care and compassion to individuals across Canada who are in crisis or are struggling with mental health. May 30 was the six-month anniversary of the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline. Across Canada, with the help of 39 network partners, including CMHA Vernon, there have been more than 200,000...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

Ride Don’t Hide Raises over $53,000 for Youth Mental Health

Ride Don't Hide was held June 9 and more than $53,000 was raised for the Youth Integrated Services Hub operated by Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District. Our Community came together to ensure that the mental health of North Okanagan youth is a priority. “Ride Don't Hide was truly a community celebration and a demonstration of how local residents are committed to supporting our youth,”...
Read More

Crisis Line

Our crisis line responders are here for you 24/7. Are you having a difficult day? Worried about a loved one? Stressed or anxious? Having thoughts of suicide? Phone support is available at any of the following:

9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline (text option available)

Interior Crisis Line Network (24 hours): 1-888-353-2273

Mental Health Support Line (24 hours): 310-6789

Youth & Family Services

Providing support, counselling, and educational programs to help youth and families manage mental health challenges and build resilience.

Adult Integrated Services

We all have mental health. CMHA believes that good mental health is essential to overall health and well-being. Whether you are managing a mental illness, supporting someone you care about, or looking to build your own overall health, we can help you build mental health skills and resilience for yourself and your family.

Housing & Financial Stability

Stronger mental health starts with stability. CMHA offers support to access housing and income, easing daily stress and opening the door to recovery.

Be the reason someone feels:

Seen

Safe

Heard

Worthy

Be the reason someone reaches out

Donate today and make a positive impact on many lives

 

Suicide Grief Support Group for Youth

Grieving a loss to suicide is deeply challenging—but you don’t have to go through it alone. This peer-led support group brings together youth with shared experiences to foster healing, connection, and resilience.

Suicide Grief Support Group

Are you grieving a loss due to suicide?

Losing a loved one to suicide can be one of the most traumatic experiences of our lives.

Support is available.

The Land is Medicine

“Land is a determinant of health for Indigenous peoples.” Source: The Lancet

In Okanagan the land is called: tmxʷulaxʷ (tm-hu-lao). Meaning – Mother Earth.

The land is not property. The land is medicine.

Featured Post

Join the 2025 PGA Teach-a-thon

Making an impact, one swing at a time. Join the PGA of BC’s Teach-a-thon for Mental Health and change the lives of people in your local community living with mental health challenges! The PGA of BC and the Canadian Mental Health Association are teaming up to bring golf lessons to keen learners, while also supporting local mental health services. The Teach-a-thon is an exciting fundraising competition for all PGA of...
Read More
Media Releases

Mental health supports address impact of climate emergencies in Interior

From wildfires and floods to extreme weather events, climate emergencies are increasingly disrupting communities and affecting people's well-being. To address the profound and lasting mental health impacts of climate-related disasters, Canadian Mental Health Association branches in the Interior and northern B.C. are working closely together to create a network of support. “We are no stranger to wildfire, flood and heat domes in the North Okanagan and...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

Founder participating in Ride Don’t Hide

Ride Don’t Hide founder participating in North Okanagan Event The founder of the Ride Don’t Hide movement will be attending the North Okanagan event in support of youth mental health services. Michael Schratter will be at the Ride Don’t Hide hosted by Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District June 8 at Creekside Park in Coldstream. "I'm coming back to my hometown and I'm excited to...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

Ride Don’t Hide supports youth mental health

Ride Don’t Hide provides support for youth mental health There’s a month left to get your bike out in support of youth mental health. Ride Don’t Hide is hosted by Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District June 8 at Creekside Park in Coldstream. Registration is underway at ridedonthide.com/vernon “With less than a month left for people to register for Ride Don’t Hide, it’s exciting to...
Read More
saʔtitkʷ honoured with King Charles III Coronation Medal
Featured Post Local News

saʔtitkʷ honoured with King Charles III Coronation Medal

A passionate advocate for justice and the community has received a prestigious honour. Margaret Clark - saʔtitkʷ, manager of restorative justice for the Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District, was presented with a King Charles III Coronation Medal April 24, 2025. “I feel humbled and grateful for being honoured in this way. I think of my work as mostly being behind the scenes with an individual...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

Special events for Mental Health Week

North Okanagan residents have an opportunity to come together, have some fun and create awareness about mental health. On May 8, 2025, Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District will hold two special events as part of Mental Health Week. “We are excited to bring the community together as a way of shattering stigma around mental health and creating connections with those around us,” said Julia...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

New director brings wealth of community experience

Vernon, BC – New director of fund development brings wealth of community experience An experienced fundraiser and community advocate is joining Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon and District. Vicki Proulx is CMHA Vernon’s new director of development and communication. “We are excited to have Vicki join our team,” said Julia Payson, executive director of the Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon and District. “Vicki has a strong...
Read More
Register now for Ride Don’t Hide
Featured Post Local News

Register now for Ride Don’t Hide

Ride Don’t Hide is back for another year and cyclists have a chance to support youth mental health services in the North Okanagan. Ride Don’t Hide is hosted by Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District June 8 at Creekside Park in Coldstream. Registration is now open at ridedonthide.com/vernon “So many people look forward to Ride Don’t Hide and it has become a tradition in our...
Read More
Watkin Motors Ford Presents Thankful Thursday.
Local News

Watkin Motors Ford Presents Thankful Thursday.

CMHA Vernon & District is honoured to be the charity of choice for Watkin Motors Ford Presents Thankful Thursday. The film will be Bring It On, a cult classic that centers around two high school cheerleading teams' preparation for a national competition. May 6 at 6:30 p.m. Vernon Towne Theatre 100% of the Box Office profits from the screening will go directly to CMHA Vernon. You can purchase...
Read More
Uncategorized

HOLIDAY HOURS CMHA VERNON & DISTRICT

The holiday season means a few changes for CMHA Vernon's administration and programs office. Dec. 24 - Open 8 to 12 Dec. 25 - Closed Dec. 26 - Closed Dec. 27 - Closed Dec. 30 - Open 8 to 4 Dec. 31 - Open 8 to 12 Jan. 1 - Closed Jan. 2 - Open 8 to 4 Jan. 3 - Open 8 to 4 For...
Read More
Uncategorized

Mental Health Tips for the Holidays

CMHA Vernon provides mental health tips for the holidays Amidst the celebrations, hectic pace and joy associated with the holidays, depression, grief, and anxiety can be the reality for many. The Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District is encouraging residents to include mental health when preparing for the festive season. “The festivities come with high expectations of perfection, but we know that pressure is something...
Read More
Uncategorized

North Okanagan Restorative Justice Services

New office location for North Okanagan Restorative Justice Services North Okanagan residents will continue to be served by Restorative Justice Services in a new location.   Restorative Justice Services, operated by the Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District, has moved from the City of Vernon Community Safety Office to the People Place at 3402 27th Avenue.   “We are excited to continue the important work...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

North Okanagan can support youth mental health

North Okanagan residents can provide hope to local youth and families navigating the very real challenges of mental health. During the holidays, the Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District is asking the community to provide much-needed resources for the Youth Integrated Services Hub (YISH). “The festive season is about coming together and celebrating. But many families are struggling with the uncertainty created by mental health...
Read More
Featured Post Media Releases

CMHA report finds the state of mental health in Canada alarming

Through a first-of-its-kind report, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is providing an in-depth look at the mental health system in Canada and how people are faring in every province and territory. Among the findings of The State of Mental Health in Canada 2024 is that no jurisdiction is spending enough on mental health, in part because they’re not obliged to. Provinces and territories are only...
Read More
Uncategorized

Committed to serving community

CMHA Vernon remains committed to serving community The Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District continues to innovate to ensure the need for mental health support in the North Okanagan is addressed. CMHA Vernon held its annual general meeting Sept. 24, 2024, and it was an opportunity to review the organization’s activities during 2023/24. “It’s inspiring to see how the organization continues to evolve to provide...
Read More
Uncategorized

World Suicide Prevention Month

World Suicide Prevention Month Shifts Discussion from Silence to Openness Vernon, BC – North Okanagan residents have an opportunity to honour loss, raise awareness, and access education about suicide prevention. Sept. 10 is World Suicide Prevention Day. Throughout September, CMHA Vernon’s crisis intervention and prevention team will spread awareness in the community through educational opportunities, media appearances, memorial activities, and lots of honest, open conversations. “Connection...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

Wildfire-Related Mental Health

Learn how to navigate wildfire-related mental health concerns Vernon, BC – Just the very thought of wildfire, smoky skies and potential evacuation can have a significant impact on mental health. However, several techniques can help lessen the anxiety. On Aug. 15, the public is invited to attend Ahead of the Fire, a one-hour session where you can learn how to prepare your mental health for wildfire....
Read More
Media Releases

Awakening the Spirit Art Show 2024

Awakening the Spirit Art Show opens discussion on mental health Vernon, BC – North Okanagan residents can celebrate local artists who are using creativity to express their mental health journeys and to ignite community conversations on mental health. The Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District will host the annual Awakening the Spirit Art Show & Sale July 25 to Aug. 20 at the Vernon Community...
Read More
Media Releases

9-8-8 Milestone

9-8-8 six-month anniversary highlights key role of Vernon responders. The Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District is providing care and compassion to individuals across Canada who are in crisis or are struggling with mental health. May 30 was the six-month anniversary of the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline. Across Canada, with the help of 39 network partners, including CMHA Vernon, there have been more than 200,000...
Read More
Local News Media Releases

Ride Don’t Hide Raises over $53,000 for Youth Mental Health

Ride Don't Hide was held June 9 and more than $53,000 was raised for the Youth Integrated Services Hub operated by Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon & District. Our Community came together to ensure that the mental health of North Okanagan youth is a priority. “Ride Don't Hide was truly a community celebration and a demonstration of how local residents are committed to supporting our youth,”...
Read More
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