Thursday, March 28, 2024

BC launches new online mental health support for front-line health care workers

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The Canadian Mental Health Association, SafeCare BC and the province have launched a new online resource hub to provide support to health care workers battling COVID-19 on the front lines.

Care for Caregivers has been designed to protect and support the psychological health and well-being of health care workers currently responding to the ongoing pandemic.

The resource was developed to serve as an online hub of trusted mental health resources — curated by experts in the field — and has information and webinars designed specifically to support the psychological wellbeing of workers and managers in long-term care facilities.

“Frontline health care workers are working tirelessly to keep us safe and healthy during this unprecedented time, and they deserve support for their mental health now more than ever” said Judy Darcy, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.

“That’s why our government is so proud to support Care for Caregivers, that provides much needed support for true heroes who do so much for this province every single day.”

This program looks to help to address the unique needs of workers caring for vulnerable patients, who are subsequently at a greater risk of exposure to COVID-19 than the general population.

Many care workers have not only been forced to isolate from their families cutting them off further from their usual social support networks, but are also working long hours in high stress situations and coping with compassion fatigue.

The Care for Caregivers project was developed by FreshWorks Studios, and has received funding from the Government of B.C.

It is a part of the $5 million funding package announced by the provincial government earlier this month to expand existing mental health programs and services to support British Columbians during the COVID-19 pandemic, and beyond.


See all the latest updates about the global COVID-19 pandemic on Vancouver Island


The BCCDC has set up a 2019 novel coronavirus telephone information line at 1-833-784-4397 for those who have further questions about this disease.

Anyone concerned that they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of the novel coronavirus, should contact their primary care provider, local public health office, or call 8-1-1.

The Province has also created the 1-888-COVID-19  line to connect British Columbians needing non-medical information about the coronavirus pandemic.

As of the time of publication, the total number of COVID-19 patients worldwide has risen to 2,621,444.

Over 182,900 people have died from the illness and 714,339 have made a full recovery.

Seanna Wainman
Seanna Wainmanhttps://www.victoriabuzz.com
Managing Editor at Victoria Buzz. Have a story idea? I'd love to hear from you! Email me at seanna@victoriabuzz.com

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