Canadians seek regulated support as mental health issues reshape work and benefits
Nearly one third of Canadians say their mental health is significantly affecting their work or studies – and Ontarians report worse outcomes than the national average.
As the winter months approach, shorter days and colder weather can further strain mental wellbeing. During this period, knowing where to turn for help becomes critical.
Registered social workers and social service workers are positioned to support mental health needs with qualified, ethical and accountable care, including in workplaces and community settings.
The Canadian Mental Health Association, Mental Health Research Canada and the Mental Health Commission of Canada have reported alarming surges of mental health concerns in Canadians over the past several years.
Nearly one third of Canadians say their mental health is significantly affecting their work or studies.
Almost half of Canadians are experiencing heightened anxiety, with women and lower-income households being particularly affected.
By age 40, half of Canadians will have had a mental health concern – nearly two times as many as those with heart disease or type 2 diabetes.
Ontarians report a higher level of poor or fair mental health and mood and anxiety disorders than the Canadian average.
These pressures land directly in workplaces, schools and families, and they intersect with benefit plans, disability trends and demand for mental health support.
The Canadian Mental Health Association notes that since 2020, the demand for mental health support has increased significantly.
There has been a nearly 50 percent increase for adults, and an over 100 percent increase for children and youth.
Access to this kind of professional support is expanding, benefiting Ontarians across the province, but the demand remains substantial.
As the need for mental health services has grown across the province, so has the number of registered social workers and social service workers ready to meet that demand.
There has been a 36 percent increase in the number of social workers and social service workers registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) since the end of 2020.
The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) currently regulates over 34,000 social workers and social service workers, the largest group of regulated mental health professionals in the province.
Social workers and social service workers are here to help Ontarians support their mental health this winter, and beyond, with ethical and community-centred care.
You will find social workers and social service workers helping Ontarians in hospitals, schools, community services, employee assistance programs and in private practice.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming when seeking support, so it remains important to be sure that you are connecting with a professional who is not only supportive but also qualified, ethical and accountable.
If you need support, you can talk to your health care practitioner about finding the best option for you.
Planning to see a mental health practitioner, or already working with one, involves more than just availability and fit.
A simple step can provide peace of mind: choose a regulated mental health practitioner and confirm their status through the OCSWSSW’s Online Register.
