TELUS launches new mental health app for Canada’s frontline workers

Espri by TELUS Health provides timely, convenient, and secure digital tools and resources to address the rising mental health needs of Canadian first responder sand healthcare workers

Toronto – In support of the well-being of Canada’s frontline workers, TELUS today announced the launch of Espri by TELUS Health, a mobile app that delivers mental health and wellness resources to support the rising mental health pressures faced by physicians, nurses, care workers, emergency medical services, firefighters, police, correctional officers, and their family members.

“The current health emergency has highlighted the unique challenges faced by our hard-working frontline care workers. We are committed to improving health experiences for all Canadians, including providing impactful mental health tools to support the brave individuals who dedicate their lives to protecting us all,” said Darren Entwistle, President and CEO, TELUS. “Driven by our passionate social purpose, our TELUS team is transforming mental healthcare in Canada with best-in-class services to develop healthy, productive workplace cultures and empower those living with mental illness. By providing timely access to effective mental health resources through Espri by TELUS Health, we are able to offer critical support to our essential frontline workers, first responders and clinicians, in turn, enabling them to keep all Canadians safe and well, today and well into the future. To our frontline workers, thank you for all that you do to keep us safe and healthy, particularly during these trying times.”

Frontline workers are exposed to incidents of trauma, violence, and grief, making them more likely to experience mental health issues:

• In 2017, a study in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry found that 44.5 per cent of first responders, including paramedics, police officers, and firefighters, screened positive for symptoms consistent with mental disorder, four times higher than the general population (10 per cent).
• Similarly, the Canadian Medical Association’s 2018 National Physician Health Survey reported that one in four physicians experience high levels of burnout, with others reporting signs of depression and addiction.

Frontline workers also face considerable barriers and stigma to accessing mental health resources.

“Despite the impact and prevalence of mental health issues, many people do not proactively seek support,” said Dr. Diane McIntosh, Chief Neuroscience Officer, TELUS. “We know that frontline workers often feel isolated and alone in dealing with mental health challenges. With Espri by TELUS Health, we can help support them in breaking down those barriers and provide a platform where they can confidently and confidentially access the support they need.”

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