March 9, 2022
DRUMHELLER – Alberta Health Services (AHS) is now providing local weekly walk-in addiction and mental health support for adults and youth, in addition to existing weekday services available through appointment.
Individuals can access walk-in addiction and mental health services Wednesdays from noon to 4 p.m. at the Drumheller Provincial Building, 201 Centre St. (east entrance).
The service will provide addiction and mental health counselling, as well as referrals to other community resources. The new service can assist up to eight individuals per week.
“Alberta’s government is building a comprehensive recovery-oriented system of care,” says Mike Ellis, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “Any Albertan struggling with mental health or addiction challenges will benefit from increased access to services that support their pursuit of recovery.”
Sherie Allen, Senior Operating Officer for Addiction and Mental Health in AHS Central Zone, explains scheduled appointments can be challenging to keep for some individuals.
“By providing a walk-in option, we are increasing the likelihood that some individuals will seek us out and find the support they need,” Allen says.
Addiction and mental health services continue to be offered by appointment for adults and youth Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the AHS Addiction & Mental Health clinic in the Drumheller Health Centre.
As always, there are supports available 24/7 across Alberta through the Addiction Helpline at 1-866-332-2322 and the Mental Health Helpline at 1-877-303-2642. There are also several resources available at ahs.ca/helpintoughtimes. Crisis services are available through the local emergency department or by calling 911.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
