In Ontario, mental illness accounts for about 10% of the burden of disease. However, it only receives 7% of health care dollars. Relative to this burden, mental health care in Ontario is underfunded by about $1.5 billion. People need fast and adequate care; however wait times for counselling and therapy can be long, especially for children and youth. In Ontario, wait times of six months to one year are common..

A recent poll found that 25% of Canadians aged 35-54 and 21% of those aged 18-34 have increased their alcohol consumption since social distancing and self isolation due to COVID-19 began. A recent poll found that 50% of Canadians reported worsening mental health since the pandemic began with many feeling worried (44%) and anxious (41%).

One in 10 Canadians polled said that their mental health had worsened ‘a lot’ as a result of COVID-19 Mental health matters, we can all take small steps to make a difference and stand up against the stigma of mental health.With the impact of COVID-19, it is more crucial than ever to have just as easy access to mental healthcare. It is time to stand up and and demand change to ensure a healthier future for all.