The Support Network

The Support Network is such an amazing resource in our community! When calling in or using their online chat it is important to note that they are run by volunteers so there are times you will be put on hold and the volunteers are not trained mental health professionals. A part of me almost wishes they would call this a «listening line» versus a distress line but it is wonderful to have an unbiased non judgemental third parties shoulder to cry on and they do offer to connect you with different resources at the end of the call if your issue requires further help from a professional. It’s also important to know that on the phone at least (not sure about the online chats) they genuinely set aside an hour for you so try not to take it personally if it sounds like they are trying to wrap up the call 45 – 50 minutes into it.
Support Network also has in person counselling at their offices downtown. The hours change every few months so it is important to call them before coming down. The counselling is solution focused and they don’t offer anything long term but again they will give you the resources you need at the end if you need long term professional help. Some of the counsellors are students on a practicum but they are always backed up by a graduated and experienced professional. The rate you pay is based on income which is a tremendous blessing to so many people who desperately need help but don’t have 60 – 80 dollars an hour to pay for typical counselling.
I could really ramble on for days about how great The Support Network is but if your are struggling and need some guidance it is best to go and find out for yourself. They offer confidentiality, caring, and respect to all.

Why the low score? Ever called a «distress line» and been put on HOLD???
Their online chat is much better and I’ve used that a couple of times when feeling really down. They’ve got weird days/​hours that don’t necessarily coincide with my moods.
Kudos to them for their community work though it’s pretty sparse but I’m sure funding plays a role there. They were also very active in making 211 available as a resource hotline in Edmonton.
I think they had a booth at the Women’s Show once that was really good.

The Support Network is a free, amazing service in our community there to support people in distress. It removes the taboo around not feeling «like a million bucks» as our culture perpetuates (How are you? Fine. How are you? Just grrreat.) and is there to help people cope at times of crisis. It’s run with an endowment fund, a board of directors and volunteers.
They dispense information and community resources but, most importantly, they will listen to you — which is what the heart in distress truly cries out for. You can call, contact them online or in person, 24 hours a day. I think the people who volunteer for this service are true angels: they want to be there for people, to help abate the suffering of the human soul and be in peace.
I’m also very impressed with the organization’s marketing and self-​promotion within the community, which has made The Support Network an unintimidating and easy option for reaching out. For more info see www. the
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