Here are some changes that could help turn the mental health crisis in Canada around

VANCOUVER—The last two years have stressed individuals, institutions, and our communities like never before. As 2022 draws to a close, public health restrictions are easing across Canada, and it feels like the COVID-19 pandemic may be behind us. Still, the question remains, “what will this new normal look like and can we just go back to normal?” Yes, there will be lasting effects and changes. Many of these changes are necessary. Mental health was a significant topic of concern throughout the pandemic, but it was an issue long before 2020. The pandemic acted as a catalyst, shining a light on numerous gaps in mental health services turn the globe and within Canada. Front-line workers are facing burnout, insomnia, and extreme stress, reducing their ability to care for others. Youth have reported higher levels of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Symptoms of depression have grown from two per cent of the reported population before the pandemic to 14 per cent. The pandemic disproportionately impacted the mental health of people of colour. The anti-Asian violence that we witnessed throughout the COVID-19 pandemic will have lasting effects on mental health for many. Data shows that Black, Asian, and Indigenous communities were more harshly impacted by the effects of COVID, both physically and mentally. All these numbers mean it’s time to pay attention and take action. These statistics are scary. It’s true. However, the COVID-19 pandemic may ultimately be the push we need for change. In fact, it appears positive change may already be underway. There is a growing destigmatization of mental health subjects. For example, in 2022, there were five million more interactions during #BellLetsTalk day than the previous year. The current Canadian government also made promises during their last election campaign for an increase in funding for mental health services. Some of this funding is already starting to be seen. There are 57 distress centres in Canada that will receive additional funding. However, it’s not enough to just have mental health services available. People are actually using them too. The use of tele-health services was up 40 per cent in 2021. A shift in how we approach work is also taking place. There is a greater focus on a work-life balance and more opportunities for flexible working hours or remote positions. When utilized well, these changes allow people to reduce their stress, spend time with family, and seek out mental health help when necessary, thanks to a flexible schedule and improved benefits plans. Adequate coverage and affordable mental health care. A significant issue is that many people lack health coverage for mental health services. Currently, there are more mental health-care providers available which means shorter wait-times to speak to someone, but not enough people are taking advantage of these shorter wait-times. Moving forward, mental health needs to be prioritized as a form of health care covered within Canada to make it accessible and affordable. Virtual and tele-health options allow mental health services to be readily available and more affordable for individuals and communities in need. More practitioners and patients would benefit from finding ways to incorporate technology into their services. Diversifying the mental health workforce is essential. It’s crucial that patients have access to help from someone who can understand their socio-economic situation or how their experiences are impacted by their race, gender, or orientation. Resiliency skills should be the focus when educating today’s youth in our school system. Helping youth develop crucial resiliency skills for dealing with times of uncertainty and stress is essential and can begin in the early years. As more young people struggle to regain their footing after two years of missed academics and social development with peers, it’s important that we focus on mental health resources for the young. These changes could help turn the mental health crisis in Canada around. It’s true that we can see some light at the end of the tunnel, but there is still much work to be done. Lastly, and of utmost importance, we all need to be aware of our own mental health and look at creative ways to empower others through professional, personal, and educational channels. Dr. Shimi Kang is a clinical assistant professor in the department of psychiatry at the University of British Columbia. The Hill Times

Here are some changes that could help turn the mental health crisis in Canada around

Many public health restrictions have eased in communities across Canada. Is there a light at the end of the tunnel where we may see reduced pandemic-related stress, or is the mental health crisis enduring?

Canada does not fund mental health care and we are all paying for it

Mental health is health: it’s time we act like it

Mental health professionals experiencing burnout

Canada does not fund mental health care and we are all paying for it

Canada should be united against China’s meddling

The fascists and the fanatics in Israel

Poilievre’s promise to expand seal hunt is dubious politics, bad economics

New energy era, new rules needed to develop responsible projects

ZEV sales targets must ride alongside infrastructure commitments

Time to invest in mental health treatments that work

Nurse retention crisis requires action plan to address workplace violence, says nursing organizations

A modern mental health sector

Charities are vital to Canada’s recovery, but time is running out

Looming post-pandemic children’s crisis calls for federal leadership

News

Get free news updates

Opinion

Submit a guest opinion article

resources

Advertise

subscribe

get help

Here are some changes that could help turn the mental health crisis in Canada around

Many public health restrictions have eased in communities across Canada. Is there a light at the end of the tunnel where we may see reduced pandemic-related stress, or is the mental health crisis enduring?

Get The Policy Briefings Newsletter