For many Canadians — kids and adults alike — back to school season may bring additional worries, whether they’re returning to in-person classes or preparing for a virtual school year. Kids might be struggling with new routines and changes in the classroom, while adults might be wondering about returning to work and worrying about the virus itself.
As we look ahead to another pandemic winter, taking care of your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health. If you or someone you know needs support, there are many resources that can help.
Kids Help Phone
Canada Health Infoway is proud to work with Kids Help Phone as an Innovation Catalyst. The Kids Help Phone self-care checklist can help students getting ready for the new school year, while the new Peer-to-Peer community enables them to talk with other young people facing similar challenges. As always, youth can also get free support 24/7 by texting CONNECT to 686868, or by calling 1-800-668-6868.
Bridge the gapp
Bridge the gapp is an online resource designed to support mental wellness — with full Atlantic coverage for adults and youth. Using a computer, tablet or phone, you can access a wide range of information and support. Browse the service directory to find resources for what you’re facing, share coping tips and even post inspirational art and music.
Digital Mental Health Tools
Researchers at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) collaborated with Infoway to develop a searchable web-based resource to support mental health clinicians and clients in introducing digital mental health tools into their care practice. Canadians can search the collection and identify mental health tools specific to their needs. Learn more in our recent blog post or visit the resource to start exploring.
Wellness Together Canada
Find a wide range of mental health resources, peer support, counselling and assessments at Wellness Together Canada. Explore by service type or topic, 24/7. By creating a free account, you can also access additional tools, apps and programs, and receive more personalized recommendations for support.
Mental Health on the Digital Health InfoCast
Infoway’s Digital Health InfoCast has hosted several conversations about e-mental health resources. We’ve rounded up some of them below. Tune in on your favourite device and don’t forget to subscribe.
e-Mental Health: Research, Access and Connection
Join Dr. Patricia Lingley-Pottie from the Strongest Families Institute to learn about trends in e-mental health research and how virtual care can improve access for families and individuals.
Tel-jeunes/LigneParents, Se connecter pour traverser la crise
In this episode, learn how technology is helping to keep Quebec’s kids and families connected, ensuring access to mental health support.
Integrating Digital Health and Mental Health
In this roundtable discussion, panellists share how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected mental health care and how digital health can help.
Reaching out for help can feel difficult, but there are many different resources that can fit your needs, goals and lifestyle. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to bring challenges, but Canadians won’t have to face them alone.
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