â–ş Listen Live
â–ş Listen Live

Virtual mental health resources available for those struggling during pandemic

The Provincial Government has invested 5 million dollars into both expanding existing infrastructure and developing new virtual mental health resources to support B.C. residents during COVID-19.

“If you are feeling anxious, stressed, depressed or disconnected because of COVID-19, I want you to know that you are not alone,” said Premier John Horgan.

Horgan acknowledged stresses experienced by the 130,000 British Columbians who have lost their jobs because of the virus.

Funding will increase access for Indigenous communities and those living in rural parts of the province.

Furthermore, the shift to virtual-care will offer options for those who are currently unable to access their regular in-person support or treatment.

“I have heard from people right across B.C. about how this pandemic is taking a toll on their mental health,” said Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, Judy Darcy.

Government officials are partnering with numerous organizations including Foundry Youth Centres, the Canadian Mental Health Association, and the BC Psychological Association.

The funding looks to:

  • expand online peer support
  • provide new options for adults grappling with mild to moderate mental health issues
  • create greater access to low-cost and no-cost programs
  • allow youth aged 12 to 24 to access Foundry services through voice, video and chat
  • develop online psychological supports for healthcare workers

Several services are available and online, while others will come online on April 20, 2020.

“Now more than ever, we have to take care of ourselves and take care of others,” stated Darcy.

Further information about mental health supports is available on the Canadian Mental Health Association British Columbia Division’s website.

The full statement can be found online.

Something going on in the Prince George area you think people should know about?
Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].

Justin Madu
Justin Madu
Justin is an anchor and reporter with MyPGNow. Born in Kelowna, he has lived in Prince George for over fifteen years. He is a graduate of the UNBC English BA program.

Continue Reading

cjci Now playing play

cirx Now playing play

- Advertisement -

Related Articles

<p>

- Advertisement -
</p>

Latest News

Grizzly bear attack west of Fort Nelson leaves one with non-life-threatening injuries

The BC Conservation Officer Service says a grizzly bear attack near Fort Nelson left one man with non-life-threatening injuries.  According to a Facebook post from the Conservation Officer Service, the attack took place at 11:00 this morning near a remote, fly-in location approximately 110 kilometres west of Fort Nelson, where a group was working in the area. 

Final touches being made for Special Olympics BC Games

With a flag raising Monday, a Torch Run on Wednesday, an opening ceremony on Thursday, and competitions on Friday and Saturday, the Special Olympics BC Games are set to bring plenty of excitement to Prince George this week. 

Darin’s Sports Shorts; Sunday, July 6th

Recap of Saturday's sports.

Surprise visit brings big smiles to boy battling cancer in Quesnel

A young man battling eye cancer received a surprise visit over the Canada Day long weekend by a car club and motorcycle club in Quesnel. Over 50 vehicles from the Prospector’s Car Club and the Dangerous Curves Motorbike Club drove by and filled the dead-end roads near Kellen Harper-Frederiko’s house, with well wishes, toys to give to Kellen, and chances for him to sit in and on cars and bikes.

Some Northern Interior Health Unit services moving next year

Northern Health's Northern Interior Health Unit (NIHU) will be making a move in spring 2026.  According to Northern Health, the current NIHU building will be deconstructed after the move to make space for the tower. 
- Advertisement -