A new progress report confirms people in B.C. are already getting better access to mental health and substance use services, achieved through government’s 10-year plan, A Pathway to Hope.

Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, has released the following statement for World Suicide Prevention Day, Friday, Sept. 10, 2021:

Student and staff mental health is an important focus as a new school year begins next week.

More British Columbians now have access to free and low-cost support for mental health and substance-use challenges with expanded funding for community-based counselling programs, including virtual sessions, throughout the province.

Children and teens who are experiencing anxiety and stress because of the COVID-19 pandemic will benefit from new digital resources from Anxiety Canada to help them cope.

Employers and employees throughout B.C. who work in the tourism, hospitality and community social services sectors now have access to vital mental health resources with the creation of a digital resource hub.

This holiday season will be unlike any other for most of us.