Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island – Adult Islanders who are dealing with anxiety and nervousness have faster and easier access to help and supports through an online program.
The new program, ICAN (Conquer Anxiety and Nervousness), educates adults about anxiety and gives them life-long skills to help deal with anxiety, depression and cope with stress.
“Islanders will benefit because they have easier access to care online and they will not need to travel to appointments or take time off work or school,” said Dr. Amanda Hudson, program lead within Mental Health and Addictions. “E-mental health and telehealth initiatives also ensure that people get the help they need when they need it in situations where in-person services may not be available quickly.”
More than 100 adults have been helped through ICAN since it started in January 2019. Adults aged 18 and older get access to a secure website, videos, relaxation audio clips, daily anxiety tracker, a support guide and weekly telephone support from a coach. For Islanders who do not have internet access, a printed manual is available.
“Islanders want to have access to the best supports and treatment possible to help them improve their mental health,” said Health and Wellness Minister James Aylward. “We are working to ensure that is available. Providing supports online is an innovative way to deliver these services. There is no wait time and help is based on what the person needs.”
ICAN is one of the online supports available to Islanders through a partnership with the Strongest Families Institute. More than 1,000 Island families completed one of the Strongest Families programs available on the Island since 2015 with a 90 per cent success rate in helping people resolve their challenges.
“Strongest Families Institute is very pleased to partner with Health PEI to deliver our ICAN program that helps adults with life-skills to overcome anxiety and stress to improve their quality of life,” said Dr. Patricia Lingley-Pottie. “We are reaching out to Islanders to let them know that help is here for them – when and where they need it. Our convenient telephone coaching program means help is easily accessible from your home, day or night. You can feel comfortable receiving help in the comfort and privacy of your own home.”
The ICAN program is free and people can self-refer at https://login.strongestfamilies.com/folder/1963/. Those without internet access can call 1-866-833-5443. More information on Health PEI’s mental health programs can be found at www.healthpei.ca/mentalhealth
