Free Mental Health Resources
The Province has made a significant investment to provide evidence based mental health support to Ontarians, free of cost.

Here we highlight three of these confidential, therapist-led programs offered through the Province of Ontario, available to everyone, including our part time and temporary staff.
My own journey through the pandemic had left me feeling always on edge and honestly not feeling like myself or enjoying things the way I used to. MindBeacon was interesting to me as I identify as an introvert and didn't know I would feel comfortable sitting in front of someone discussing my feelings. With this program I am able to complete cognitive bahavoural therapy online, when it suits my schedule, while still being connected through the chat function to a qualified therapist. I actually completed some of my program while waiting for my son's lacrosse game to start. I have just began my program through MindBeacon but so far I have been pleasantly surprised with the quality of the support and the tools that they have provided me.

I share this because there is no shame in reaching out to get the support you need. You aren't alone and I encourage you to reach out for support from any initiative that resonates with you and your journey.

Respectfully,
Brooke Windl
Manager, Health and Wellbeing
MindBeacon

A virtual, therapist guided program designed for adults 16+. Provides evidence based supports to help with many mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, panic, PTSD and stress. 

The program utilizes cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a psychotherapy approach that helps you develop the skills you need to change negative and anxious thinking so you can feel and function better.

Create a free account, and complete an online self-assessment. A therapist will then create a plan designed just for you. Complete your personalized program over the next 6-12 weeks with virtual support from your therapist. 

  • No worry about appointments to keep

  • Available whenever and whereever you are

  • On any web-enabled device you prefer



Bounceback

A free skill-building program managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). It is designed to help adults and youth 15+ who are experiencing mild-to-moderate anxiety or depression, or may be feeling low, stressed, worried, irritable or angry.

Participants receive telephone coaching, skill-building workbooks and online videos to help them overcome these symptoms and gain new skills to regain positive mental health. These tools can be customized to fit your individual needs.
Choose the journey and pace that is right for you.

  • Bounceback Coaching provides a trained coach to motivate and keep you on track
  • Bounceback Today Videos if you aren't quite ready for coaching
Breaking Free From
Substance Use

An evidence-based digital behaviour change program that allows people to recognize and actively address the psychological and lifestyle issues that are driving their use of alcohol and/or drugs, so helping to support their recovery.

Based on Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, mindfulness and other proven therapeutic approaches, the program gives people a comprehensive toolkit of resources, positive coping strategies and proven behaviour change techniques to support their long-term recovery.

Breaking Free is suitable for anyone whose life is being significantly affected, or whose health is being damaged, by their drinking or use of drugs.

It enables people to address their dependence on alcohol or any type of drug.
It is equally effective for people who want to reduce their drinking or drug use to less harmful levels or those who need to stop completely because their substance use has become severe.

It can strengthen every stage of the recovery journey, from initial engagement and motivation through active intervention to supporting people’s long-term recovery.

If the initiatives you select are held during your operational hours, please confirm scheduling needs with your supervisor. You may need to attend the sessions using your personal unpaid time. 
Learn More about the Find Your Way to Wellness program

The Region’s Find Your Way to Wellness Program includes many initiatives designed to support you as we slowly transition out of the pandemic. We invite you to take full advantage of all the initiatives that resonate for you personally in your wellbeing journey. 
 
Access the Health and Wellbeing Portal here
View the digital calendar of events here

Thank you to all of you who have reached out to share your feedback on the Find Your Way to Wellness program. We continue to welcome your comments on what you are finding helpful, and where you may need additional support by email at healthandwellbeing@regionofwaterloo.ca.
For more information, please contact the Heath and Wellbeing Team  | healthandwellbeing@regionofwaterloo.ca