TORONTO – The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Toronto has launched a new, free grief support program aimed at addressing the growing need for accessible bereavement services in the city. The initiative seeks to remove barriers to psychological treatment, particularly as Canada grapples with an alarming increase in mental health issues without sufficient infrastructure to meet the demand.
“Grief is a natural part of life, but if left unaddressed, it can transform into complex mental health issues that persist, and require specialized treatment,” said Michael Anhorn, CEO of CMHA Toronto. “With the state of mental health care in our country, people can experience wait times of more than two years to receive psychological support for grief. Our goal is for these programs to provide immediate care for those experiencing loss.”
The newly introduced Grief Support Program is open to adults (18+) who have experienced loss and are struggling with bereavement. Designed to help participants navigate grief and build resilience, the program provides a range of services, including workshops and dedicated support groups focusing on emotional regulation and healing.
The program consists of two grief seminars followed by tailored support groups catering to specific types of loss. These groups include:
- Survivors of Suicide Loss – Weekly for 6 sessions
- Grief Recovery After a Substance Passing (GRASP) – Weekly for 4 sessions
- Adult Education Support Group (Loss of Mother/Father/Sibling/Friend/Grandparent) – Bi-weekly for 6 sessions
- Parents of Older Children – Weekly for 5 sessions
- Loss of Client/Compassion Fatigue – Bi-weekly for 4 sessions
- Spousal Grief Group – Weekly for 4 sessions
“Many of us don’t know how to deal with the rapidness, isolation, and pressures to move through life while experiencing grief,” said Jennifer Allen, Manager of Mental Health Promotion and Training at CMHA Toronto. “By providing a safe space for individuals to process their grief, we aim to empower people with the tools and support they need to cope with their loss and move toward healing.”
The Grief Support Program is available both online and in-person across the Greater Toronto Area. No doctor’s referral is required, ensuring accessibility for those in need.
The initiative is made possible through the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
For more information, visit CMHA Toronto’s website.
SOURCE Canadian Mental Health Association Toronto
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