The Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick and the Department of Health launching Bounceback, a free mental health initiative targeting those struggling with stress, anxiety, and low mood.
Executive Director of CMHA New Brunswick Christa Baldwin says the underlying goal of the program is to prevent serious mental health issues from developing.
“Prior to the pandemic, people’s needs were not being met. We now know that the mental health needs have continued to increase during this pandemic. So the earlier people reach out for help now, the better in the long run.”
The program is done via workbooks and telephone coaching. She says being able to do the program from the safety of your home is a huge bonus.
“People are really struggling so in reality, I think everyone could benefit from mental health services and care right now to help see us through the other side of this.”
She says the mental health system has been chronically underfunded and needs have only increased during the pandemic.
“So having help now can really move you forward in a positive way and avoid reaching that crisis point or that high-risk point in many situations.”
BounceBack is based on cognitive behavioural therapy and has been shown to reduce depressive and anxiety symptoms by 50 per cent at program completion.
For more information on the program, visit cmhanb.ca/BounceBack, email BounceBackNB@cmhanb.ca or call 506-455-5231.
