Connecting Islanders with services

A new mental health website was recently launched to make it easier for P.E.I. residents to find the help they need.

Bridge the gapp is an online resource for Islanders to find mental health and substance use support information and select what best meets their needs.

It is part service directory, part knowledge hub and, ultimately, a go-to resource for mental health information and support.

Bridge the gapp was codesigned by people with lived experience with mental illness and substance use with community and government partners.

People can connect with local clinicians, find tools and services and share personal stories with others at www. pei.bridgethegapp.ca.

“Virtual care will continue to play a vital role in improving access and our system transformation,” said Health and Wellness Minister James Aylward. “We all have mental health and this is an additional support that all Islanders can use to build resiliency to flourish and cope with life’s challenges.”

The program was initially developed in Newfoundland and Labrador to address the gap between mental health and substance use challenges and access to quality local supports. Bridge the gapp has been a source for resources and services since 2015.

Prince Edward Island launched the new online mental health service in partnership with Canada Health Infoway.

“Mental health is a critical part of our health-care system and we will continue to focus on improving access to life-changing care that Islanders deserve as we navigate through these uncertain times,” said Premier Dennis King. “Bridge the gapp is a valuable addition to mental health services in our province, providing meaningful easy-to-access virtual care and mental health resources that Islanders need right now.”

New Brunswick has also just launched Bridge the gapp, and other provinces and territories outside of Atlantic Canada are in talks with the government of Newfoundland and Labrador on how they can leverage the service to support residents in their respective jurisdictions.

For more information on the programs and services currently available to help Islanders, visit www.healthpei.ca/mentalhealthandaddictions.