mental health

Toronto's bid to decriminalize the possession of illegal drugs for personal use has been plunged into uncertainty in recent days, as drug policy experts suggest political debates over British Columbia's backtracking on the issue have hurt the city's application.

The agency warned on Monday that over 70 per cent of the world's workforce is likely to be exposed to excessive heat during their careers. It also warned of air pollution, pesticides and other hazards that could lead to health problems including cancer.

Climate activism can be a valid, even vital, coping strategy. But young people also say when they rush into action and find climate movements are not all structured for healing, they experience burnout and dejection.

Bodies and minds are just as affected by climate change as sea ice and forests, says University of Alberta scientist Sherilee Harper.

Renters across the country faced record low vacancy rates and record high rent increases in 2023, but Statistics Canada says Toronto and Vancouver residents who don't own their homes face the greatest financial pressures.

The stress and trauma of losing a loved one, seeing a home destroyed or watching a beloved community splinter have resounding mental health repercussions that stretch on for months, even years after the disaster makes its first impact. 

“Really inefficient engine technology is, pound for pound, more polluting than cars and trucks.”

The claimants argue lack of adequate action is a breach of human rights in the largest climate legal action to date.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry will be discussing drug decriminalization and public drug use in the opening session of the annual Union of British Columbia Municipalities convention in Vancouver.

Two-week work cycles. Shifts that can last up to 18 hours. Sleeping in tents or gymnasiums far from home. Dangerous and unpredictable work environments.

Research has shown that smells enhance autobiographical memories and trigger trauma-related flashbacks and that rates of PTSD, depression and generalized anxiety climb after wildfires and remain elevated for years after.

Recent cases of violence across Canada demonstrate a clear need to treat mental illness early instead of waiting until a serious crime happens, says an executive with the Canadian Mental Health Association.

One week after a survey found Ontario students are struggling to access mental health support, a Toronto District School Board report shows its budget for next year accounts for 485 fewer positions for school-based staff.

Principals reported “increased behavioural issues, kids struggling with self-regulation, and kids struggling with being able to stay mentally healthy,” said Annie Kidder, executive director of People for Education.

Alberta’s health minister says the new health funding deal with the federal government will dovetail with provincial reforms to the system.