While Mental Health Week is officially held from May 4th to 10th 2020, we believe mental health should be recognized every day of the year. Each year, 1 in 5 people in Canada will experience a mental health illness or problem, and all Canadians will be indirectly affected by mental illness at some point, whether through their family, friends, or colleagues.
- By the time they reach 40 years of age, 1 in 2 Canadians will experience mental illness.
- Mental illness is a leading cause of disability in Canada.
mental health in the age of COVID-19
Today, more than ever, we are living an unprecedented reality that’s causing and heightening stress and anxiety. 80% of individuals surveyed by Morneau Shepell indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic specifically had a negative impact on their mental health. Thankfully, new and existing mental health supports and services are available and are ramping up in order to provide more support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
We encourage everyone to hold a space for mental health, wellness, and well-being. We’re also encouraging individuals to practice self-compassion – you’re doing the best you can!
be kind to yourself, to others, and your mind!
To kick start this initiative, we’ve compiled some lower-cost and free mental health programs, resources, and supports you and your family can use.
Wellness Together Canada provides tools and resources to help get employees back on track. These include modules for addressing low mood, worry, substance use, social isolation, and relationship issues. Free counselling is also available.
Based on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), this interactive site teaches you to use ways of thinking to prevent depression and anxiety.
CAMH COVID-19 discussion forum
This forum is a peer-to-peer space where you can offer support, encouragement, and share experiences about managing stress and anxiety related to the COVID-19 virus.
Managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association, this skill-building program is designed to support the mental wellness of adults and youth (15+).
Immediate mental health counselling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous peoples across Canada. Call their toll-free number 24/7 at 1-855-242-3310.
mental health commission of canada
MHCC offers training programs, resources, and tools aimed at improving mental health and well-being.
Personalized, guided digital therapy by a registered therapist, activities to help you gain resilience, and quick reads from BEACON’s mental health experts are available through this program.
mind control: managing your mental health during COVID-19
Offered by University of Toronto, the purpose of this course is to provide a better understanding of how the human brain reacts to a crisis, as well as introducing tools for managing mental well-being.
ontario mental health helpline
Confidential health services information for people experiencing problems with alcohol and drugs, mental illness, or gambling. Call their toll-free number 24/7 at 1-866-531-2600.
Randstad’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) has developed a series of 10 to 30-minute webinars, including Emotional Well-Being During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Talking To Your Child About COVID-19.
sunlife webinar – boasting mental wellness
Registered Psychologist and Director of Mental Health Solutions for Sun Life, Carmen Bellows will help guide you through ways to care for your mental wellness.
National network of existing distress, crisis, and suicide prevention line services. Call their toll free number 24/7 at 1-833-456-4566.
practice intentional breathing
Practicing intentional breathing can help you calm down in moments of stress. Learn a calming inhale-exhale technique using this interactive tool.
An anonymous online environment of people helping people, Big White Wall is moderated 24/7 by trained practitioners who keep its members safe.
Nationwide organization for youth with information about mental health and creative stress management.