Message from the Minister of Health on Mental Health Week — May 3-9, 2021  

Today marks the start of Mental Health Week. This week’s activities are unlike those of previous years. As we continue navigating challenges and changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, more Canadians are struggling with new or worsened mental health issues.

Today marks the start of Mental Health Week. This week’s activities are unlike those of previous years. As we continue navigating challenges and changes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, more Canadians are struggling with new or worsened mental health issues.

You are not alone. If you’re feeling anxious, uncertain, sad, or lonely, consider reaching out to a friend, a family member, or another person you trust.

If these are feelings you are not used to, feel overwhelming, or you want to speak with a mental health professional, you can access the Wellness Together Canada portal, which provides free and confidential mental health services to Canadians. Wellness Together Canada’s online mental health and substance use supports are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Canadians of all ages can use the self-assessment and peer support, or free and confidential sessions with social workers, psychologists and other professionals.

It is normal to experience stress and anxiety in these uncertain times. This year has been difficult, and many are facing new mental health challenges. Wellness Together Canada has been an important support for those needing mental health support through the pandemic, with over 1.2 million Canadians accessing it in more than 3.7 million web sessions since its launch. And we’re investing $62 million through Budget 2021, so that this service will continue to be available to Canadians.

All Canadians deserve equal opportunities to thrive and lead healthy lives, both physically and mentally. This Mental Health Week, I encourage you to #GetReal about how you feel, to learn more about the resources and tools we have available to support mental health, and get help if you need it.

The Honourable Patty Hajdu, P.C., M.P.