This resource map provides information on the current state of mental health care and the prevalence of mental health issues in Canada. It highlights the gaps in service delivery that physicians face when treating patients who present with mental health symptoms.
Understanding the landscape of mental health conditions—especially those like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, and workplace burnout—is essential when beginning practice in Canada, given the regional differences in disease prevalence (Lancet, 2019).
New practitioners must be aware not only of the clinical symptoms but also of the broader systemic barriers patients face, such as limited public coverage for psychotherapy and long wait times.
The Medical Council of Canada (MCC) Examination Objectives describe the attributes expected of medical graduates entering residency in Canada. This resource map is associated with the following Objectives:
This list of objectives reflects the main themes in this resource map and is not exhaustive.
Some of the resources listed below are specific to particular provinces or regions and are not always generalizable to all of Canada. We encourage you to seek out specific resources for your own needs.
The State of Mental Health in Canada in 2024
Canadian Mental Health Association Report and Webinar
This is a first-of-its-kind deep dive into the mental health, addictions, and substance use health care landscape in Canada, using data from across the country.
What mental health services are covered in Canada?
Canadian Medical Association Article
This article discusses what mental health services are covered under publicly funded health care in Canada.
Read the article (approx. 3 min).
Millions can’t access the mental health care they need, report shows
CBC News Video
This video discusses a new report examining the state of mental health in Canada showing that millions of people with mental illness are unable to get the care they need within the publicly funded system.
Child & Youth Mental Health Toolkits
The College of Family Physicians of Canada toolkits
This collection of toolkits provides a practical, user-friendly resource for screening, assessment, and treatment of child and youth mental health issues commonly presenting in primary care. It is intended to increase health care providers’ awareness and understanding of the epidemiology, symptoms, and identification of common mental health conditions and provide examples of recommended treatments.
Screening Tools for mental health
University of Ottawa eMentalHealth.ca/PrimaryCare mental health screening tools
If a patient presents with a mental health concern, these screening tools can be used at the point of care to see if further evaluation is required. They may be emailed to a patient to fill out at their convenience, printed out to be filled out by a patient, or filled out with the patient online.
Autism prevalence among children and youth in Canada
Public Health Agency of Canada infographic
This infographic shows the autism prevalence among children and youth in Canada. It is based on a 2018 Report of the National Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Surveillance System.
Other resources you may want to explore:
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Related topics: substance use
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