News Release
October 10, 2020

Mayor John Tory has proclaimed October 10 as World Mental Health Day in Toronto. This year’s World Mental Health Day comes at a time when lives have been significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. People dealing with mental health conditions may be experiencing even greater struggles with isolation, stress and anxiety, exacerbated by COVID-19 measures. In early-April, the City launched a mental health support strategy for residents to access mental health resources during COVID-19.

The City has partnered with key mental health service providers to provide free mental health support. Residents can simply call 211 to get connected to mental health service partners for direct phone support. The strategy provides support to diverse communities throughout Toronto, including those most vulnerable to mental health issues: children and youth, seniors, frontline workers, Indigenous, Black, racialized and LGBTQ2S residents.

The following is a list of partner agencies and organizations:

As of September 26, partner agencies have offered mental health support to more than 66,000 Torontonians across the city. Before launching this program, partners handled approximately 400 calls in a two-week period. After launching the program, calls spiked to between 2,500 to 4,500 calls in a two-week period. Most recently, there have been increased calls around ongoing mental health and family issues.

Mental health service information is also available at 211toronto.ca.

The Proclamation is available online.

Quote:

“World Mental Health Day reminds us of the importance of having access to mental health supports, which have proven to be very important during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The City’s mental health support strategy offers residents direct access to several key mental health service providers so that they can get help when they need it. Improving our mental health care resources will benefit all Torontonians as we cope with and adjust to the impacts of COVID-19 on our daily lives. I encourage residents who are struggling with their mental health to access these supports and services and for others to check in on friends and family who may be feeling isolated during these challenging times.”
– Mayor John Tory

Toronto is home to more than 2.9 million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.

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