Shoppers Drug Mart launches virtual mental health program

By

Jennifer Braun

Published
Apr 3, 2020

As Canadians struggle with increased stress amid the Covid-19 pandemic, Canadian pharmacy retailer Shoppers Drug Mart is launching a virtual stress management program in partnership with SilverCloud Health. 

The online stress program, available nationwide at www.shoppersdrugmart.ca, uses a mix of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), positive psychology and mindfulness tools that aim to help users change negative thinking patterns and behaviours.

The full program, which consists of eight modules, contains text, video and audio clips, as well as interactive and engaging activities built by leading clinical and subject matter experts that are designed to help challenge and change unhelpful behaviours.

"Our purpose is helping Canadians live life well, and these days that means more than ever," said Jeff Leger, president of Shoppers Drug Mart. 

"With health and financial concerns, isolation, and anxiety rising, this program is designed to treat stress with modern approaches. Hopefully, it brings people peace of mind, and possibly gives them and the healthcare system some relief at a time when both are burdened."

As the Covid-19 crisis continues to excel, many brands and retailers have rushed to support local communities via new program initiatives, product donations and more. 

In Canada, consumer goods giant Unilever Canada announced a $3 million donation of essential goods to Canadians in need through food banks. Likewise, Hudson's Bay has committed a $1 million donation in response to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis via the Hudson's Bay Foundation. 

Shoppers Drug Mart is covering all associated costs with its stress management program. It will be free to Canadians until June 15. 

Shoppers Drug Mart Corporation operates more than 1,300 Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix stores across the country, as well as four luxury beauty destinations operating as Murale, and other retail operations.