The mental health crisis in Canada is becoming increasingly acute, preventing nearly 500,000 Canadians from going to work each week and costing the economy over $51 billion annually[i].. This crisis affects real people every day, struggling within the confines of our culturally individualistic society, exacerbated by isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
There is a significant gap between those recognizing their need for mental health services and those who have access to them. Of the 5.3 million people reporting a need for help, 2.3 million receive only partial or no support[ii]. The biggest shortfall is in accessing counselling services—34% of those seeking support fail to receive it[iii]. Challenges include a shortage of service providers, geographic barriers, and issues related to affordability. Even with insurance, the average cost of therapy at $150 per hour is prohibitive for many, making essential psychological support unaffordable for those earning an average or minimum wage in Canada[iv]..
At Discovery Ink & Art, located in Brockville and serving areas like Ottawa and Kingston, we are committed to addressing these affordability issues. We leverage our business as a platform to enhance access to mental health services by partnering with practitioners to offer reduced-fee therapy and coaching. Learn more about how we support mental health affordability.
If you need immediate mental health support, please consider the following resources:
- Wellness Together Canada (Partner of the Canadian Federal Government): Text WELLNESS to 741741 for emergency support.
- Canadian Mental Health Association: Call 1-833-456-4566 nationwide or 1-866-277-3553 in Quebec, available 24/7.
- Kids Help Phone: Available 24/7 at 1-800-668-6868.