Petition:
Enactment of a universal public program of psychotherapy

Petition text

WHEREAS, during this pandemic, studies show that one in five adult Quebecers has reported suffering from anxiety;

WHEREAS l’Ordre des psychologues du Québec has identified an increase in depression, anxiety and insomnia among health care workers;

WHEREAS seniors are among those most likely to suffer mental health consequences within the context of the pandemic;

WHEREAS wait times to consult a psychologist working in the public health network vary between 6 and 24 months;

WHEREAS most Quebecers do not have access to private insurance to cover the costs of more timely psychotherapy services;

WHEREAS it is urgent to act given the distress triggered by  this second wave of COVID-19 for many Quebecers;

WHEREAS studies indicate that each dollar invested in mental health reduces costs, including hospitalisation, drug, absenteeism, suicide and welfare costs, two to four times.

We, the undersigned, ask the Minister of Health and Social Services to promptly enact a universal public coverage program for psychotherapy:

•         delivered by qualified professionals;

•         covering the cost of up to 15 sessions; and

•         available for a large array of mental health issues faced by children and adults.

The signing period for this petition is over.

Signing deadline : November 18, 2020

Number of signatures : 7538

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Email: renseignements@assnat.qc.ca