If you are thinking about suicide, or you’re worried about someone else, there is help and there is hope. Call or text 9-8-8 toll free, any time — lines are open 24/7/365. To learn more about 9-8-8 visit their website.

CMHA Nova Scotia Division

SearchClose

CMHA Nova Scotia Division

Find CMHA in your area
Find CMHA in your area
Menu Close
Search

What are you looking for?

You are currently on the:

CMHA National

Visit our provincial websites

CMHA NS Peer Support Programs

What is Peer Support: Peer support is a supportive relationship between people who have a lived experience in common.

Peer support programs work by offering people support, encouragement, and hope that recovery is possible. Peer support considers the wellness of the whole person and focuses on health and recovery rather than illness and disability, in order to assist people in finding their own path to recovery.

There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to peer support. It can take many different forms and be offered wherever people need it, whether in peer-run organizations, workplaces, schools, or healthcare settings. Peer support is intended to complement traditional clinical care and vice versa.

The Value of Peer Suport: Peer support programs can help alleviate some of the pressure on Canada’s strained healthcare system by reducing not only the need for hospitalization but also the emotional distress experienced by patients. They also help people develop the skills they need to take charge of their lives.

If you have any questions about our peer support groups, please contact [email protected]

Source: MHCC

Peer Support Groups [In Person]

Starting September 10

The Womens Empowerment Squad: The Women’s Empowerment Squad is a safe and friendly place to connect with others, feel heard and hear from others who understand.

*Snacks, beverages provided at meetings. Bus tickets available if needed.*

To join the Squad, contact Samantha Bonnar at [email protected] or 902-979-0700

Starting September 10

Canso Peer-to-Peer Circle: The Canso Peer-to-Peer Circle is a safe space for Nova Scotians who have experienced gender-based violence to find connection, receive support and draw strength from one another.

To Register email Michelle Newell at [email protected] or call 902.870.0016

Starting September 11

South Shore Parents Peer Support Group: Parenting can be challenging. But you don’t have to face those challenges alone. The Parents Peer Support Group is a safe, non-judgmental place to connect, share your stories and struggles, and learn from the experiences of other parents.

Other Details: Meetings are held in a child-friendly space but please note, we do not provide child-care. Parents are encouraged to bring a quiet toy or book to entertain their child.

To join the Parents Peer Support Group email [email protected]

Virtual Peer Support Groups

Starting September 17

Caregiver Connections Family Peer Support Group: Supporting an individual living with a mental illness or substance use disorder can take an emotional toll. Caregiver Connections provides caregivers with a safe and friendly place to connect with others, feel heard and hear from others who understand.

This weekly, virtual peer support group  is designed for parents, grandparents, siblings, partners, and children of Nova Scotians living with a mental illness or substance use disorder.

Register HERE

Starting September 19

Parents Peer Support Group: Parenting can be challenging. But you don’t have to face those challenges alone. The Parents Peer Support Group is a safe, non-judgmental place to connect, share your stories and struggles, and learn from the experiences of other parents.

Register HERE

Becoming a Peer Support Group Facilitator

CMHA NS Division seeks individuals with lived experience to help us offer peer support groups. These relationships are key to ensuring that CMHA NS is meeting the mental health needs of all Nova Scotians are met. 

Facilitators are responsible for guiding a group with a focus on ensuring groups are a respectful and safe space to discuss mental health challenges.

What does a peer support group facilitator do?

Peer support group facilitators have lived through similar experience to those who attend the group, and is trained to support members of the group. Facilitators are responsible for guiding groups with a focus on ensuring groups are a respectful and safe space to discuss mental health challenges.

What we look for: 

What you gain from this role:  

Being a peer support group facilitator with CMHA NS is a big commitment but it’s also a deeply rewarding one. Facilitators often build on their leadership and facilitation skills while building strong connections to their communities. CMHA provides training, along with an honorarium.

Visit the News section of our website to view any current listings for a peer support group facilitator.

These peer support groups are generously funded by the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia.

Skip to content