February 4, 2025 from HRD Canada
A staggering 49,105 opioid-related deaths were recorded in Canada between January 2016 and June 2024, according to Health Infobase. Meanwhile, mental health and addiction issues are rising at an alarming rate, with suicide rates increasing, particularly among younger Canadians.
“Mental health is truly the pandemic,” says Tammy Sergie, CHRO at mental health treatment centers EHN Canada. As the country grapples with post-pandemic mental health challenges, access to treatment remains inadequate, particularly in Ontario, the most “under-bedded” province in the country.
A Mental Health System Under Pressure
Several factors contribute to Canada’s growing mental health crisis:
- Limited access to treatment – Some patients wait years for care. One individual in Ontario has been on a waitlist for nine years.
- Youth at risk – Many young Canadians struggle with addiction, homelessness, and rising suicide rates.
- Opioid epidemic – In 2023 alone, BC recorded 2,272 illicit drug deaths, with opioids accounting for 90% of cases.
- Workplace mental health concerns – 33% of Canadians report mild depressive symptoms affecting their productivity.
- Social isolation – The pandemic has fundamentally changed how people interact, with younger generations lacking strong interpersonal relationships.
Workplace Mental Health: Are Employers Doing Enough?
Mental health challenges aren’t just affecting individuals—they’re impacting workplaces nationwide. A Deloitte study found that mild depression is now a leading cause of absenteeism and presenteeism.
“Mild depression is becoming a normalized condition among working professionals,” says Sergie. Many employers rely on Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), but these services are no longer sufficient to address the emerging mental health crisis.
The Role of AI and the Changing Workforce
Beyond mental health, AI is rapidly reshaping jobs, adding another layer of uncertainty. “The world is changing so quickly, I don’t even know what next year is going to look like,” Sergie admits. HR professionals must navigate these challenges while ensuring employees feel supported and engaged.
A Communal Effort is Needed
Addressing Canada’s mental health and addiction crisis requires collaboration between government, healthcare providers, and employers. As Sergie puts it, “We can’t solve this within our own businesses alone. It truly is a communal effort.”
With mental health conditions, addiction rates, and suicide numbers rising, Canada’s healthcare system and workplaces must evolve to meet growing demands. By investing in better treatment options, stronger workplace support, and open conversations about mental health, Canadians can work to tackle this growing crisis.
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