Ontario boosting mental health support for first responders

Mobile app to offer self-assessment tool

Ontario is partnering with Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences in Whitby to develop a mobile app that will provide information about mental health, allow for self-assessment of symptoms and help Durham Regional Police Service's officers and staff find appropriate clinical services when needed. 

This project will help mitigate barriers to mental health support and treatment and improve awareness and acceptance of mental health issues among first responders. Real-time information will be tailored specifically to individual needs and will be easily accessible.

It will also help improve well-being, which will lead to reduced police service costs through reduced sick days and leaves of absence.

The Ontario government will provide up to $174,605 in support for the project. 

This is part of the Occupational Health, Safety and Prevention Innovation Program (OHSPIP), which supports workplace-focused innovation projects and collaborative partnerships that lead to improvements in occupational health and safety in Ontario.