In  2002 the Premier's Advisory Council on Health recommended  that “mental health services should be integrated into the work of regional health authorities.” The provincial government's Standing Policy Committee on Health and Community Living supported the recommendation.  On April 1, 2003 the nine regional health authorities assumed responsibility for mental health programs and facilities.  

News Release Updates:

• Family Physicians, psychiatrists, and mental health clinicians team up to improve patient care, January 13, 2004
• Alberta Mental Health Board welcomes new members, October 23, 2003
• Day one for new health regions: services now also include access to mental health programs and facilities, April 1, 2003
• Alberta Mental Health Board welcomes new member, February 28, 2003
• Albertans benefit from State-of-the-Art Psychiatric Facilities, February 27,2003
• Transition underway to fewer health regions, integrated mental health, January 23, 2003

Mental health services in Alberta include:

• in-patient and ambulatory care services
• approved homes
• independent living support
• crisis services
• resource and drop-in centres
• group homes
• psychotherapy programs
• suicide prevention programs
• children's assessment and treatment services
• assertive community outreach
• supported independent living
• consumer and family self-help groups
• crisis stabilization
• community clinics
• vocational, recreational and day programs

Each year, about 503,904 Albertans – about 17 per cent of the population – receive mental health services from physicians. The count is based on billings for physician services for psychiatric disorders.  The Alberta Mental Health Help Line is 1-877-303-2642.

Emergency numbers
Kids Help Line: 1-800-668-6868
Distress Line: 1-800-232-7288