AHS/Togetherall

By Regan Tate

Online network providing mental health support to Albertans

Sep 10, 2022 | 7:00 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – More than 25,000 Albertans have been accessing mental health support over the past 22 months through an online peer-to peer support network.

The network is called Togetherall and partnered with Alberta Health Services (AHS) in 2020.

Anyone 16 or older with an Alberta postal code can post anonymously on its message boards at no cost.

The platform has seen engagement from rural Albertans, at-risk and historically marginalized communities, and first-time help-seekers.

Tanya Nichol is a senior clinician with Togetherall in Alberta who monitors discussion boards. Nichol says the “24/7 accessibility of the online platform makes a significant difference for users, and helps remove barriers to accessing support. It’s helpful to have an online space that can be accessed without a referral or wait time,” says Nichol.

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The platform allows users to access resources or receive support without disclosing to their family, their doctor, or their place of work or study. It is also safeguarded by professionals. “We know everyone needs support from time to time, and closing the gap in available support requires innovative solutions,” says Matthew McEvoy, Togetherall’s General Manager.

Forty per cent of new service users from Alberta report having thought about ending their own life in the six months prior to joining Togetherall. A further 65 per cent of members say they have experienced panic attacks, and 88 per cent of members say they have experienced stress.

Thoughts about self-harm were experienced by 36 per cent of members in the six months prior to joining Togetherall, and incidents of self-harm were reported by 13 per cent of newly registering members. Togetherall’s team of clinicians – online 24/7 – reach out to vulnerable individuals on a one-on-one basis.