Nova Scotia Buzz
As Nova Scotians continue to be deeply affected by recent tragic events, Shoppers Drug Mart has made available online mental health programs to areas of the province affected by the tragedies, in partnership with the Government of Nova Scotia and Nova Scotia Health Authority. Immediate and extended families of victims, close friends, neighbours, and others, will be contacted by their postal code and offered unique access, free of charge.
“During these already challenging times, Nova Scotians have been impacted particularly hard by terrible tragedies in their community,” said Jeff Leger, President, Shoppers Drug Mart. “We want to do what we can to help those who are coping with loss. We hope these resources will help bring them some peace and relief during their time of grieving.”
These online mental health resources have been designed to meet a range of needs and include helpful articles, meditations and full access to SilverCloud Health’s digital mental health platform. A partner of Shoppers Drug Mart, SilverCloud Health’s platform includes confidential, in-depth and interactive programs for stress, resilience, anxiety and depression and includes access to behavioural health coaches (social workers) for one-on-one online support.
NSHA Mental Health and Addictions Program teams will continue to support members of the affected communities. They will recommend the online resources to individuals and families who could benefit from these programs as well as provide the unique link allowing them to access the customized services on the website.
“We appreciate Shoppers Drug Mart’s response to the needs of our affected communities at this time by expanding their access to online support,” said Sam Hodder, NSHA Mental Health and Addictions Program Senior Director. “NSHA Mental Health and Addictions Program is committed to providing high-quality mental health and addictions care and support. Virtual care and support is an important component of our care continuum. This partnership allows us to offer more ways to connect people with helpful tools and resources.”
The Honourable Randy Delorey, Nova Scotia Minister of Health and Wellness, said, “Nova Scotians are going through a lot right now, particularly those living in communities directly impacted by the tragedy last month. For people who need support and resources to help them manage their mental health, wellness or an addiction, I want them to know there are options available when they are ready to reach out, either through the formal health system, in their communities, over the phone or online. The Shoppers Drug Mart programs may be suitable for many of these people in their time of need.”
