VITAL LINKS: Rallying from Isolation, Loneliness & Depression to Connection, Contribution & Joy

Experts agree that isolation and loneliness are epidemic in Canada and beyond, with rates of depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal ideation rising across all demographics. The resulting impacts on individuals, families, workplaces, and communities are serious and require urgent, innovative, and collaborative attention.

To that end, VITAL LINKS: Rallying from Isolation, Loneliness & Depression to Connection, Contribution & Joy combines science with storytelling in a compelling conversation about this pressing issue with experts from various sectors, ages, and cultures who have diverse experiences, insights, ideas, and passions.

Designed to inform, inspire, and mobilize viewers, the summit explores isolation, loneliness and the resulting mental health challenges and opportunities before, during, and after COVID-19. Touching stories of trauma and resilience are balanced with practical mental health how-to’s, reports of pioneering public policies and programs abroad, First Nations’ perspectives on mental health and care, models of connection and advocacy for youth and seniors, and emerging chatbot technology to support seniors.