CMHA Calling for Better Mental Health, Addictions Support in Northern Ontario in 2026

What’s Happening?

The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is warning in a new report that Northern Ontario’s mental health and addictions support system is facing unprecedented strain.

“Investment in community mental health and addictions supports is an investment in our economic infrastructure,” Mary Davis, CEO of CMHA, North Bay and District, told MyNorthBayNow.

“It’s not just compassionate; it’s fiscally responsible and essential to Northern Ontario’s long-term prosperity.”

According to the report, titled “Protecting Northern Ontario for 1.3 cents on the dollar,” estimates that a targeted stabilization investment of approximately $435 million could:

• Significantly slow the number of individuals experiencing homelessness in the region
• Reduce pressure on emergency and institutional systems — resulting in a healthier, more stable workforce

The organization warns that the number of individuals experiencing homelessness in Northern Ontario is currently on track to more than double by 2035.

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Disability Benefits in Ontario: What You Need to Know

Drug addiction (substance use disorder) and mental health disorders can have a profound impact on an individual’s ability to perform their job duties — even with appropriate treatment.

For Ontarians who can’t work, short-term disability (STD) and long-term disability (LTD) benefits can provide a crucial financial lifeline.

How These Benefits Help

• STD: Provides temporary financial support for individuals unable to perform their job duties.
• LTD: Offers income replacement for individuals unable to return to work for an extended period of time.

To qualify for STD or LTD benefits, medical documentation is essential to demonstrate how your condition prevents you from working.

Sadly, insurance companies often deny legitimate LTD claims — including in cases involving drug addictions and mental health disorders — adding unnecessary stress to an already difficult situation.

SEE ALSO
• Medical Conditions that Qualify for Disability in Canada
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📺 WATCH: Next Steps After a Disability Claim is Denied

Claim Denied in Ontario? Get Help Now

If your insurance company prevents you from accessing disability benefits for a drug addiction or mental health disorder, connect with an experienced Ontario disability lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.

Our compassionate team regularly resolves issues involving STD, LTD, critical illness, life insurance, and mortgage insurance claims across the province.

We’ve helped thousands of Ontarians, including Julie Austin and Sandra Bullock, secure the compensation they’re owed.

Contact us today for a FREE disability consultation.