December 24, 2021
Support for more Albertans experiencing stressful times
EDMONTON – Alberta Health Services (AHS) is expanding Text4Hope in multiple languages, supporting more people struggling during difficult times.
Text4Hope is now available in Arabic, French, Simplified Chinese and Punjabi to provide support for those dealing with mental health-related issues. To subscribe, visit ahs.ca/text4hope.
“We know many people are struggling and it can be difficult to reach people who speak English as a second language. Translating Text4Hope is one simple thing we can do to help more Albertans,” says psychiatrist Dr. Vincent Agyapong, founder of Text4Hope.
“Alberta is a diverse province. We know people of all backgrounds are struggling through this pandemic and can benefit from additional support. Expanding Text4Hope to offer more languages is an important step to help improve the mental health and wellness of every Albertan,” says Mike Ellis, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addiction
Text4Hope is an evidence-based tool that helps people identify and adjust the negative thoughts, feelings and behaviours a pandemic might be expected to provoke. Through a set of daily messages, people receive advice and encouragement helpful in developing healthy personal coping skills and resiliency. Community members simply subscribe to receive ongoing supportive content at no cost. (Standard message rates may apply.)
To date, more than 54,000 people have subscribed to the Text4Hope service.
“Inclusivity is important. Text4Hope in multiple languages will help us provide a unique support to Albertans,” says Dr. Nicholas Mitchell, Provincial Medical Director for Addiction and Mental Health.
Text4Hope is supported by the Mental Health Foundation, in partnership with Calgary Health Foundation, the University Hospital Foundation, the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation, Alberta Cancer Foundation, Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation and the RBC Foundation.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
