It’s no secret that small business owners and entrepreneurs are left without the types of support systems their 9 to 5 colleagues may enjoy. COVID-19 has also added a level of stress and uncertainty that can create feelings of helplessness and doubt, as well as other serious impacts on mental health.
A recent study conducted by CMHA showed that 62% of business owners feel depressed at least once per week, and nearly half say that it interferes with their ability to work.
These individuals, who are often seen as the drivers of our economy, need support but seldom have the resources to address it
Not only is it acceptable to seek out help, but it’s often necessary to maintain overall life satisfaction and happiness.
And yet, barriers still exist and include a lack of access to resources, the cost of remedial services, and limited awareness of the support systems available.
What We’re Doing About It
The Town of Innisfil is proud to work with Nottawasaga Futures to support a pilot program, which expands mental health consultation services to our business community.
Nottawasaga Futures is a longstanding community economic development agency serving the South Simcoe area. With the help of their expertise, the Town of Innisfil is dedicated to ensuring any business owner that wants access to mental health services, can receive it.
To achieve this, the highly successful Nottawasaga Futures consulting program has been expanded to include confidential support sessions with a mental health professional, for up to five hours, free of charge.
“We are pleased to partner with our partners in South Simcoe on this sorely needed program,” said Martin Kuzma, CEO of Nottawasaga Futures. “Accessible mental health supports are critical for business owners and entrepreneurs.”
The feedback received for the duration of this 12-month pilot program will be used to identify the need for future programming. Entrepreneurs from Bradford West Gwillimbury and New Tecumseth are also able to access the program free of charge.
How to Get Support
No matter the size of your business or what sector you operate in, you will be eligible to receive this complimentary service.
If you would like to participate, follow these steps:
1. Contact Martin Kuzma at 705-435-1540 or martin@nottawasaga.com. You will be asked a series of questions, none of which will include any personal health information.
2. Once you are confirmed as an entrepreneur or business owner, you will be connected directly to a mental health professional.
3. Speak confidentially with a mental health professional either by phone or online.
4. Once the sessions are complete, you will be required to submit a brief feedback form.
The program is not available to respond to crisis situations. If you or a family member is experiencing a crisis, please call 1-855-310-COPE (2673).
Other Resources:
Fast Facts about Mental Illness – https://cmha.ca/fast-facts-about-mental-illness
Government of Canada Mental Health and Wellness – https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/topics/mental-health-wellness.html
Government of Canada – Mental Health Support https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/mental-health-services/mental-health-get-help.html
CMHA Simcoe County Branch https://cmhastarttalking.ca/
