Mental health is among the priorities for the provincial NDP heading into the June election.

Leader Andrea Horwath released a plan Sunday that calls for a universal mental health care plan.

Services would be offered through OHIP if Horwath forms the next provincial government.

She says mental health is as important to our well-being as physical health.

The plan would start with a minimum of six sessions for treatment through OHIP, expanded to twelve for those who need it.

The NDP would also fund training for doctors, nurses, community health care workers, and social workers to increase the number of professionals available.

Horwath says the plan would help more than half a million Ontarians right now but can’t afford it.
“Never has the need been so great,” says Horwath. ” A silent epidemic of mental health struggles swept in with COVID, exposing just how broken Ontario’s system is. Millions of people are dealing with anxiety, stress and fear for their loved ones, their health and their jobs. After two years of disruption, countless kids are struggling with personality changes and anxiety. Too many of us are coping with grief and loss. Too often, people who think they need help also think they’ll never be able to afford it. People are suffering with nowhere to turn.”

Horwath says at least one in four Ontarians sought mental health or addictions counselling during the pandemic.
“No one should have to turn to the emergency room again and again for a mental illness that could be better treated and managed. And you shouldn’t have to rack up credit card bills for mental health care — not for yourself or for your kids,” said Horwath. “Guaranteeing mental health care without cost will relieve pressure on hospitals, emergency services and the justice system. But most importantly, it’ll help people live their healthiest, best life.”

Horwath estimates her plan to cost $1.15 billion when fully implemented.