A short‑stay, home‑like place for support during suicidal crisis.
Calgary Respite House
A short‑stay, home‑like place for support during suicidal crisis.
Calgary Respite House
About Us
Calgary Respite House (CRH) is a 3 to 5 night, community-based and voluntary option for adults experiencing a suicidal crisis, who are willing and able to "stay safe for now". It is a calm, home‑like space where guests can take a breath, connect with others who have similar experiences, and reconnect with safety and hope.
Our team is made up of mental health and peer support workers with lived experience who are trained and at a place of recovery to support others, available 24/7 to offer compassionate, emotional and practical support.
Calgary Respite House is for adults (18+) who:
- Are experiencing thoughts of suicide, or have recently made a suicide attempt
- Are not at imminent risk of harming themselves or others, and can keep themselves safe during the referral process
- Live within the City of Calgary, and have a safe space to return to once they leave the program
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Can stay abstinent from alcohol and recreational cannabis for at least 24 hours before intake, from any illegal drugs or substances for at least 72 hours before intake, and throughout their stay
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Can manage their own basic needs, including self-administering their own medications
During Your Stay
CRH is intentionally designed to feel like a home. Guests have their own private bedroom and bathroom, are provided with shared meals, and have access to common areas which include quiet spaces and a backyard.
During your stay, you can expect:
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Daily one‑on‑one conversations with mental health and peer support workers with lived experience who are trained and at a place of recovery to support others
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Safety planning to help you stay grounded during moments of distress
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Recovery planning to explore strengths, supports, and what healing looks like for you
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Discharge planning to prepare for your transition home, including connections to resources and supports
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Optional peer support groups to develop coping strategies and life skills
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Hourly observational checks during the day and bi-hourly quiet overnight observational checks
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A supportive, judgment‑free environment
You choose how you spend your time — resting, talking, participating in groups, or simply taking space.
How to Access Our Services
Access to Calgary Respite House is coordinated through Distress Centre Calgary’s 24/7 crisis line. The person seeking support must make the call, but they may call with a supporter—such as a health or allied‑health professional, family member, or friend—if that feels more comfortable.
During the call, Distress Centre staff will explore what the person is experiencing, discuss safety, and determine whether Calgary Respite House is an appropriate fit. If there are concerns about immediate safety or imminent risk, alternative support options may be recommended. If suitable, Distress Centre will guide the caller through the next steps.
To request a referral to Calgary Respite House, call 403-266-4357
Contact Us
Do you have questions about the program? Reach out to us!
This form is for general information inquiries only. Please do not use this form to submit referrals.