Ontario Announces Mental Health Support Program for Public Safety Workers

The Ontario government has announced a new initiative to enhance mental health support for public safety personnel. The program, named Mental Health Supports for Public Safety Personnel (MHS4PSP), is set to receive over $32 million in funding. This initiative aims to provide specialized mental health services to police officers, firefighters, correctional workers, paramedics, and other public safety workers across the province.

Key components of the program include a web portal offering access to internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy and peer-support tools. Additionally, the program will feature a 24/7 call-line and other trauma-informed mental health services. Employers will have access to grants to help subsidize these services.

The program is part of a broader strategy under Ontario's Roadmap to Wellness, which seeks to improve mental health and addiction services across the province. The initiative also includes an Anti-Stigma Strategy aimed at reducing the stigma associated with seeking mental health support, based on recommendations from the 'Staying Visible, Staying Connected, for Life' report.

The government has selected Warrior Health, a consortium of experts, to design and deliver the services for the MHS4PSP program. This initiative is part of a larger $45.2 million investment announced in the 2022 Budget, focusing on early intervention and specialized mental health services for public safety personnel.