Expanding Virtual Mental Health Services Critical in this Time of Need

(Toronto – May 5, 2020) – Today, Rocco Rossi, President & CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce released the following statement in reaction to the provincial government’s announcement to expand virtual mental health services during COVID-19 pandemic.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has created a significant amount of additional stress for both employers and employees. People are worried about paying the bills, their health and that of their families, or an increased workload. The expansion of free and virtual mental health services announced today by the Ontario government is welcome during this time when many Ontarians feel isolated as they cope with increased stress and anxiety. Beyond personal wellness, the economic burden of mental illness in Canada is significant, impacting health care costs, productivity, and quality of life.

“May 4-10 is Mental Health Week and we encourage people to reach out and check in on the mental well-being friends, families and colleagues as you never know what difficulties people are facing. A phone call or video chat can make all the difference.”

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About the Ontario Chamber of Commerce
For more than a century, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) has been the independent, non-partisan, indispensable partner of Ontario business. The OCC’s mission is to support economic growth in Ontario by defending business priorities at Queen’s Park on behalf of its network’s diverse 60,000 members.

For more information, please contact:
Michelle Eaton
Vice President, Public Affairs
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
michelleeaton@occ.ca or 647-261-4594