Sophie Gray
Local Journalism Initiative reporter
The Government of British Columbia announced $5 million to fund new and existing and mental health services and programs to support British Columbians. In a joint statement on Thursday morning, Premier John Horgan and Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Judy Darcy said they are ramping up virtual mental health resources to help British Columbian’s through this crisis.
“I have heard from people right across B.C. about how this pandemic is taking a toll on their mental health,” said Darcy. “Whether longstanding challenges are flaring up or you’re struggling with your mental health for the first time – we’re here for you. We’re working quickly to expand virtual mental health services to ensure that when you reach out for support, someone will be there to help.”
In partnership with community organizations, the new funding will go towards providing more access to online programs for mental health with a focus on no cost or low cost counselling programs to serve all communities. Special support will be given to front-line health-care workers through new online hubs providing virtual peer support and psychological services. Youth between the ages of 12 to 24 will also be given special support through an expansion of existing mental health services.
“At this unprecedented time, it is even more important for youth and families across B.C. to know where to find the supports and services they need,” said Dr. Steven Mathias, executive director of Foundry in an emailed statement.
Access to mental health care for seniors is also a growing concern in the province, said Darcy and Premier Horgan, who acknowledged the lack of access to virtual services for many seniors. Premier Horgan and Darcy stressed that it is up to families and friends to support the seniors in their lives through contacting services like the BC 211 phone line to help seniors in such situations.
“We’re not able to visit our seniors, our grandparents, our loved ones at times like this, and that’s very much where relatives need to step up and volunteers need to step up,” said Darcy.
Other people with limited access to virtual services include those struggling with homelessness and addiction, which Premier Horgan said is an ongoing battle that won’t be won at this time, although they are hopeful that members of the homeless community will also benefit from the funding.
Horgan also noted that while mental health concerns are likely to flair up during times of crisis, the province is aware of the issue and trying to help.
““If you are feeling anxious, stressed, depressed or disconnected because of COVID-19, I want you to know that you are not alone,” said Premier Horgan. “Our government is working to give you more options for mental health support as we all stay home to prevent the spread of this virus.”
