Canadians Can Get A Month Of Free Counseling With A Therapist Online Right Now

Life during the COVID-19 pandemic can be stressful, to say the least. While everyone's stories are different, we've all been affected by it to some degree. If you've been struggling emotionally, don't be afraid to ask for help — especially with the option of free counselling in Canada.

Starting Monday, March 30, Vancouver-based non-profit WIRTH Hats wants to gift Canadians who can't afford therapy free counselling.

"The last couple of weeks have been tough on mental health," said WIRTH Hats in a release shared with Narcity.

"For many, the mental health effects of COVID-19 will be just as challenging to address as the physical health effects," they continued.

To apply, all you need is to fill out their online form. You'll hear back from them within a week and can get started in less than two weeks after that.

Typically, all four free sessions will take place online through the BetterHelp platform, which offers phone or video chats. They told Narcity there are over 3,000 counsellors to pair with in a variety of languages.

Anyone who's not able to cover the cost of their own counselling is free to apply, plus they'll have to be open to attending at least four sessions.

You must also be able to start within two weeks of hearing back from them and give feedback on the counselling you receive.

In a statement to Narcity, the company said it normally costs $300 for the four sessions of counselling. They hope to fund 500 sessions for people in need.

"After one month, we will check in and if the individual feels they could really use more support we will do our best to cover another month for that individual," they told Narcity.

The company was first inspired to help destigmatize and provide support for those struggling with mental health after the founder lost friends to suicide.

In life, Jakob Wirth dreamed of starting his own hat business. WIRTH Hats was made in part in his memory after he unexpectedly took his own life.

Now, that dream has finally become a reality thanks to his friend and WIRTH co-founder, Ben Miller.

It's a really tough situation we're all living in, but at least organizations like WIRTH Hats and others are lending a hand.

Some stepped forward with counselling while others handed out meals to those in need.

So if you're struggling during this pandemic, please ask for help. You're worth it and we're all in this together.