Youth
Youth Services in Nova Scotia: Shelters, Mental Health, 2SLGBTQ+ Support & More
Updated May 28, 2026
Help for Young People in Nova Scotia
If you are under 25 and need help, there are services designed specifically for you. Everything here is confidential.
Talk to Someone Right Now
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868 (24/7, any issue)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 (24/7)
- Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988 (24/7)
Emergency Shelter
Phoenix Youth Programs — Emergency shelter for youth ages 16–24 in Halifax. Also provides health services, employment support, and housing programs. Safe, judgment-free. Call 902-420-0669.Mental Health
IWK Mental Health & Addictions — Clinical mental health services for children and youth (0–19) across Nova Scotia. Self-referral accepted. Call 902-464-4110. Laing House — Free peer support for young adults 16–29 with lived mental health experience. Programs in Halifax, Yarmouth, and Sackville.2SLGBTQ+ Youth
The Youth Project — Support, resources, and community for 2SLGBTQ+ youth up to age 25 across Nova Scotia. Drop-in spaces, support groups, one-on-one support, and rural outreach. Call 902-429-5429 or visit youthproject.ns.ca. Trans Lifeline — 1-877-330-6366 (staffed by trans people, will never contact police without your consent)Cyberbullying
CyberScan Unit — Nova Scotia's provincial unit that investigates cyberbullying. Can issue warnings and prevention orders. Call 902-424-6990 or toll-free 1-855-702-8324.Youth Leaving Government Care
PATH Program — Financial support (~$1,300/month) for youth 19–24 who were in permanent care of Community Services. Call 1-877-424-1177.Online Safety
Cybertip.ca — Report online sexual exploitation of children. NeedHelpNow.ca helps get intimate images taken down. Call 1-866-658-9022.Frequently Asked Questions
- Where can a young person get help in Nova Scotia?
- Call Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868. For shelter, call Phoenix Youth Programs at 902-420-0669. For mental health, call IWK at 902-464-4110. For 2SLGBTQ+ support, call The Youth Project at 902-429-5429.
- Is there an emergency shelter for youth in Nova Scotia?
- Phoenix Youth Programs in Halifax provides emergency shelter for youth ages 16-24. Call 902-420-0669. It is safe, judgment-free, and confidential. Also call 211 for other options.
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