Statement
Statement from the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions on Canada’s Second National Day of Observance for COVID-19
March 11, 2022 | Ottawa, ON | Public Health Agency of Canada
The Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Carolyn Bennett, today issued the following statement to reflect on the two years that have passed since the World Health Organization declared COVID‑19 a pandemic:
”On this second National Day of Observance for COVID-19 I wish to acknowledge the profound effect this pandemic has had, and continues to have, on the mental health of Canadians and Indigenous Peoples across Canada. The last two years have been very difficult on Canadians, half of whom reported worsening mental health since the COVID-19 pandemic began, including seven out of 10 health care workers.
Mental health and substance use challenges impact us all—whether in our own lives or those of our loved ones, in our workplaces, or in our communities. We recognize that social isolation and loneliness were present among Canadians before the pandemic, however efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19 led to an increase in isolation, loneliness, stress and depression among people of all ages, as well as an increase in substance use and overdoses. We recognize that many people especially young people and members of Indigenous, diverse and 2SLGBTQI+ communities did not have access to mental supports and services before the pandemic and that has been exacerbated over the past two years.
COVID-19 has helped people better understand that it is ok to not be ok, especially when struggling with a mental health or a substance use issue. By talking openly and honestly, we can reduce the stigma that still remains a barrier for those who are suffering to reach out for help. During these difficult times, it is critical that all Canadians have access to effective resources and tools, and are able to obtain reliable information about mental health and substance use.
At the beginning of the pandemic, together with our partners, Health Canada developed the Wellness Together Canada (WTC) portal as an on-line resource available to all individuals across Canada. This portal provides access to free mental health and substance use supports, online, by phone or text 24/7. Through WTC, people across the country can access supports ranging from self-assessment and peer support, to free and confidential sessions with social workers, psychologists and other professionals. WTC offers services in both official languages, and phone-counselling sessions are available in 200 languages and dialects through instantaneous interpretation.
PocketWell, a free companion app to Wellness Together Canada, is also available where people across the country can access additional resources, including a self-assessment tool and tracker that monitors mood and mental well-being.
Indigenous Peoples who need immediate emotional support, crisis intervention, or referrals to community-based services can access experienced and culturally sensitive help line counsellors through the Hope for Wellness Help Line at 1-855-242-3310. Indigenous Peoples can also connect to the online chat at www.hopeforwellness.ca.
It’s so important to reach out for support. Today and every day, I encourage you to take care of your mental health and reach out to others who may be struggling.
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.P.
Contacts
Maja Staka
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett
Minister of Mental Health and Addictions
(343) 552-5568
Media Relations
Public Health Agency of Canada
613-957-2983
media@hc-sc.gc.ca