Amid growing global demand for mental health and addictions services, Ontario is actively confronting the complex challenges facing its system. Rising demand, long wait times, uneven access, and fragmented care pathways continue to place pressure on services. Against this backdrop, a recent engagement in Toronto brought together senior leaders across government and service delivery to explore practical, system-level solutions.
The discussions convened Honourable Vijay Thanigasalam, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, Senator Katherine Hay ICD.D, and the leadership team at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), alongside representatives from the eMental Health International Collaborative (eMHIC). The session provided a valuable opportunity to align on shared priorities and examine how innovation, policy, and collaboration can work together to strengthen mental health systems.
Strengthening Access Through Coordination and Innovation
A central focus of the discussion was improving access to care, particularly in remote and rural communities where service gaps are often most pronounced. Leaders explored how digital models can support more equitable access, alongside the need for stronger coordination across services to reduce fragmentation and improve continuity of care.
Artificial intelligence also emerged as a key enabler. Conversations highlighted the potential for a provincial AI strategy for mental health and addictions to enhance system navigation, optimise resource allocation, and improve outcomes. This included the importance of building AI capability across the system, ensuring that clinicians, policymakers, and service providers are equipped to implement and scale these tools effectively.
The role of digital mental health roundtables was also recognised as a practical mechanism for driving change. By bringing together local stakeholders, these forums can support greater alignment, foster shared ownership, and accelerate implementation at a regional level.
Global Insight Informing Local Action
As part of the exchange, eMHIC shared international perspectives on digital mental health strategy and policy. This included insights from the Systems Navigation Think Tank report, Beyond Borders: Connecting Global Digital Mental Health Systems, as well as Ireland’s Sharing the Vision: Digital Mental Health Strategy 2026–2030.
These examples reinforced the value of global knowledge exchange in informing national and regional approaches. While each system operates within its own context, there is increasing alignment around the importance of structured navigation pathways, data-informed decision-making, and integrated digital infrastructure.
Pragmatic Leadership Driving Progress
The discussions reflected a strong commitment to practical, action-oriented leadership. Across government and service delivery, there was clear alignment on the need to move beyond strategy into implementation, with a focus on scalable solutions that can deliver measurable impact.
Ontario’s approach highlights the importance of collaboration across sectors, supported by clear policy direction and investment in enabling technologies. As jurisdictions worldwide navigate similar pressures, this kind of leadership provides a valuable example of how systems can respond with clarity, coordination, and purpose.
This engagement marks another step forward in strengthening international collaboration and advancing digital mental health implementation, grounded in shared learning and a collective commitment to improving outcomes for communities.
