Two global crises, one day: mental health and homelessness on October 10 

October 10 is both World Mental Health Day and World Homeless Day, highlighting how mental health and housing are deeply intertwined.  

This year’s World Mental Health Day theme, “Access to services: mental health in catastrophes and emergencies,” underscores a simple truth: when disaster strikes, mental health support saves lives. Across Ontario, we’ve seen how crisis and catastrophe can ripple through communities, from devastating wildfires in the north to deadly flooding in the Ottawa Valley to the housing and opioid crises touching nearly every region. Each of these emergencies brings lasting emotional and psychological impacts that often outlive the event itself. 

The mental health toll of emergencies 

Based on estimates from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), in emergencies, one in three people may experience a mental health condition and one in twenty may face severe or prolonged distress. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than one in five people in affected populations may develop depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other serious conditions. 

In 2023 and 2024, wildfires forced northern Ontario communities from their homes for weeks. Separation from loved ones and loss of land connection led to widespread trauma, particularly among Indigenous communities. 

Similarly, flooding in eastern and central Ontario destroyed infrastructure and cut residents off from vital support networks, leaving many struggling with anxiety and post-traumatic stress long after the water receded. 

In all these situations, access to timely, trauma-informed mental health care can make a difference. Yet many still face long wait times, access gaps, stigma and systemic inequities that keep care out of reach. 

Despite growing awareness, funding has not kept pace with need. Sustained investment in mental health and addictions care is critical to ensure care doesn’t stop when chaos begins. 

How our branch responds when crisis hits 

Our branch is often among the first to respond when disaster strikes. 

We provide crisis counselling, mobile outreach, safe housing and trauma-informed care for communities under immense strain. Whether it’s setting up temporary counselling, coordinating with emergency services during an overdose surge or helping individuals rebuild stability after displacement, CMHA Thunder Bay helps our community navigate the emotional aftermath of crisis. 

But the demand for support continues to grow. That’s why investment in mental health infrastructure remains vital for our province’s resilience. 

The importance of access and equity in mental health 

This October 10, CMHA Muskoka-Parry Sound continues our call for renewed commitment to accessible and equitable mental health care in every corner of northwestern Ontario. 

Our goal is that no one should face an emergency alone. 

If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to our 24/7 Crisis Phone Line: 1-800-461-5424