During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic people experienced periods of isolation, uncertainty, and stress which contributed to an increase in reporting of negative impacts on mental health and more people seeking services. However, barriers to accessing these services hindered many from getting the care they sought. Historically the mental healthcare system has struggled to provide adequate services for those seeking care. The sudden increase in demand that arose from the pandemic further burdened the system leading to direct intervention by the federal government to provide relief.
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