October 10th is World Mental Health Day, a global observance that reminds us of a simple but powerful truth: mental health is health. For patients living with serious illnesses, mental wellbeing is not a secondary concern — it’s a vital part of their care journey.
At Pfizer Canada, we believe that supporting mental health is an important part of patient care and overall wellbeing. Whether someone is undergoing cancer treatment, managing a chronic condition, or living with a rare disease, emotional resilience and psychological support are key to helping patients thrive.
Mental health challenges are not confined to any one diagnosis. Patients across therapeutic areas often face emotional hurdles that can be just as difficult as the physical ones. The stress of a new diagnosis, the uncertainty of treatment, and the isolation that can come with illness all contribute to mental health struggles.
For example:
Oncology patients may experience anxiety about treatment outcomes, fear of recurrence, or grief over changes in identity and lifestyle.
Cardiovascular disease patients often report depression following major cardiac events.
Patients with chronic pain or autoimmune conditions may struggle with feelings of helplessness or frustration.
Rare disease patients may face loneliness and a lack of understanding from others.
These emotional experiences are real and deserve compassionate attention and support. Mental health support should be considered a core component of patient care — not an optional add-on.
Fortunately, Canada is home to a number of organizations dedicated to supporting mental health for all. These groups offer education, peer support, counselling, and advocacy — helping patients feel seen, heard, and empowered.
Some key mental health resources include:
Offers peer support programs, public education, and advocacy for individuals living with mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Provides community-based mental health services, including crisis support, counselling, and wellness programs.
Offers evidence-based tools and resources for managing anxiety, including self-help programs and youth-focused content.
A centralized Government of Canada page that connects Canadians to national and provincial mental health services, including crisis lines, counselling, and support programs. This resource is designed to help individuals find the help they need, wherever they are in Canada.
These organizations are making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients — and their work is more important than ever.
Beyond national mental health organizations, many patient associations have recognized the importance of emotional wellbeing and have developed mental health programming tailored to their communities.
By integrating mental health into their services, these organizations are helping patients feel less alone — and more equipped to navigate their health journeys.
One inspiring example is Lung Cancer Canada, a patient organization that has made mental health support a priority in its programming.
Lung cancer is often associated with stigma, fear, and isolation — and patients can face unique emotional challenges. Lung Cancer Canada recognizes this and has developed initiatives to support the psychological wellbeing of patients and caregivers
Their programming includes:
Peer-to-peer support: Connecting patients with others who understand their experience.
Mental health webinars: Featuring experts in psycho-oncology, mindfulness, and coping strategies.
Caregiver resources: Acknowledging the emotional toll on loved ones and offering tools to support them.
Patient stories: Sharing real experiences to foster connection and reduce stigma.
By prioritizing mental health, Lung Cancer Canada is helping patients feel empowered, supported, and understood — and their work is a model for other organizations across therapeutic areas.
Our partnerships with patient associations across therapeutic areas reflect our commitment to compassionate, inclusive care. We support initiatives that promote emotional wellbeing, reduce stigma, and connect patients with the resources they need.
This World Mental Health Day, we encourage patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers to talk openly about mental health. Whether it’s reaching out for support, joining a peer group, or simply acknowledging the emotional impact of illness — every step matters.
Mental health is an integral part of every patient’s story. And by recognizing that, we can build a healthcare system that truly supports healing.
Because mental health is health — and every patient deserves care that treats the whole person.