As part of Ontario’s mental health strategy, a new online tool will provide easier access to mental health services and support
Photo: Flickr user Official GDC (CC by 2.0)
On Jan. 16, Premier Kathleen Wynne declared additional financial support under the provincial program Open Minds, Healthy Minds. The funding is part of Ontario’s multi-year comprehensive mental health and addiction strategy that started in 2012.
George Brown College (GBC) in association with Seneca College, Queen’s University, Stella’s Place, Toronto District School Board and Gerstein Crisis Centre will develop an online platform called iConnect.
This online tool will be a web-based platform and mobile application, providing accessible services for youth with mental health issues. iConnect would also provide connections, assessments, peer support and recovery services, and its service will be available to current and potential college students as well as university students.
“Online support platform for mental health is a very cool idea. Online access for every student whether they’re dealing with mental health or not, is a ray of hope for everyone with easy access to counselling and other related support information online,” said Tianna O’Reilly, a special events planning student.
More than 70 percent of mental health and addiction issues start when people are young, according to a press release. Further, investing to improve post-secondary student’s mental health is part of Ontario’s government’s plan to invest in people’s talents and skills.
Kim Dayto, a community worker program student, says, “I think that having online access is an intelligent strategy to communicate with the youth,” as many post-secondary students today would rather use electronics and hand-held devices to access information.
Since the launch of the Mental Health Innovation Fund in 2012, this the third phase of funding.
Provincial investments have totalled $9 million annually, which includes $6 million for the Mental Health Innovation Fund, according to Ontario. This year 14 more new projects got approval from the premier, making it a total of 32 supported projects at the college and university levels across Ontario.
