Wednesday, September 30, 2020
It can be hard to imagine the impact your work may have one day, but when our members at Ontario Health - Quality tested the effectiveness of allowing patients to access Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) through an internet-based platform, they were taking an important step towards protecting the health of Ontarians during the current pandemic.
Originally, the move to providing these services over the internet was to improve access for people in rural communities or those who are unable to leave their homes. During the pandemic, these internet services have become critical to those experiencing anxiety and major depression disorders.
CBT is a form of talk therapy that helps people change their thought patterns to influence their behaviour. The online approach to this therapy has been approved for public health providers in Ontario for several mental illnesses. Now, AMAPCEO members at Ontario Health - Quality are researching possible expansion of the treatment to help those with other mental health issues.
If you are concerned about your mental health, reach out to your primary healthcare provider who can help you develop an appropriate treatment plan.
AMAPCEO members and your families can also access the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) online at workhealthlife.com.https://www.workhealthlife.com/