During these unprecedented times, many people may experience an increase in stress and anxiety. Front line health care workers and their families may experience additional mental health challenges related to burnout and seeing the results of COVID-19 firsthand.

There are a number of free resources available to health care workers, patients, caregivers and others.

Where to Find Help:

• CAMH: Mental Health and the COVID-19 Pandemic. Information to help people with concerns and questions about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their lives and mental well-being.
• Ontario Ministry of Health
• Talking to Children About the Pandemic
• Resources for Ontarians Experiencing Mental Health and Addictions Issues During the Pandemic

• The Canadian Psychological Association is offering psychological services to frontline health care workers free of charge. 
• For Ontarians currently receiving mental health and addictions services and supports, please contact your current service provider to learn about potential virtual care options.
• For Ontarians interested in public addictions services and mental health services for those over 18, they can contact ConnexOntario, Ontario's mental health, addictions and problem gambling help line at 1-866-531-2600.
• Children and youth under 18 can locate mental health services through the Ontario.ca and Kids Help Phone websites, or contact Kids Help Phone (1-800-668-6868) for 24/7 support, if they need someone to talk to.
• Good2Talk is a free, confidential mental health support service providing professional counselling and information and referrals for mental health, addictions and well-being to postsecondary students in Ontario, 24/7/365.
• To access BounceBack and their guided self-help program using workbooks with phone coaching support, visit bouncebackontario.ca or ask your primary care provider for a referral.
• Big White Wall is an online, peer-to-peer support community for mental health. Big White Wall is free, anonymous and available 24/7, 365 days a year.