By Emily Stonehouse
Access to mental health services is something that many struggle with, particularly in a rural community.
Luckily, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) have taken the steps to officially open a new mental health walk-in clinic in the heart of Minden.
“We’re excited to bring this service to Minden,” said Calli Lorente, Manager of Integrated Crisis Services of the local CMHA branch in a press release. “This clinic offers a low-barrier entry point for people seeking support and reflects our commitment to meeting the mental health needs of the community.”
Mental health and mental illness are often terms used interchangeably, but are substantially different, says the CMHA. “Everyone has mental health and will experience challenges regarding their mental well-being, but not everyone will experience a mental illness,” they said. “The presence or absence of a mental illness is not a predictor of mental health; someone without a mental illness could have poor mental health, just as a person with a mental illness could have excellent mental health.
According to the CMHA, one in five individuals will navigate a mental health crisis each year, and by the age of 40, about 50 per cent of the population will have or have had a mental illness. With over 4000 Canadians dying by suicide each year, the need for mental health support is on the forefront. “The symptoms of mental illnesses can be treated and very often managed effectively,” said the CMHA website. “With the right supports, people with mental illnesses can thrive.”
On Sept. 11, the CMHA announced their walk-in clinic in Minden, noting that beginning on Thursday, Sept. 18, the clinic will be open one day a week, opening the doors to those in need. “The model offers face-to-face support in real time which can make all the difference when taking that first step toward mental wellness,” said the CMHA website, noting that the clinic opening is coming on the heels of success at Peterborough and Lindsay clinics, who have supported over 200 individuals since February, 2025.
The clinic is designed for individuals not currently tied to mental health professionals, but looking for options to explore their next steps; offering immediate access to someone who will listen. While the CMHA is eager to bring those in need through the new Minden clinic’s doors, they are adamant that it is not the site for those in an immediate state of crisis. “CMHA encourages anyone experiencing mental health crisis to reach out for immediate support by calling or texting the 9-8-8 National Suicide Crisis Helpline,” they said.
The clinic will be open on Thursdays from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., and will be located at 6 McPherson Street in Minden. “This new clinic in Minden is another meaningful step,” said the CMHA, “ensuring that residents of Haliburton County have accessible, timely, and compassionate mental health care when they need it most.”
