The difference between prevention and emergency response – Jack.org

February 17, 2026

Recent findings from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health confirm what social workers across Ontario are already seeing every day. Rates of psychological distress are historically high.

Despite sustained public attention, investment and conversation, the mental health system is falling further behind. More people are asking for help, which is a good thing. But too many are waiting too long, paying too much, or falling through the cracks altogether.

People should not have to reach a breaking point before support is available. Yet people are navigating grief, anxiety, neurodivergence, family breakdown, academic pressure, unemployment and major life transitions without timely access to care. Too often, they reach the mental health system only once distress has escalated into crisis.

Read More: https://www.jack.org/individual-resource/the-difference-between-prevention-and-emergency-response