🩺 Celebrating World Family Doctor Day 2025

TORONTO – This year’s theme, “Building Mental Resilience in a Changing World,” highlights the essential role of family doctors in supporting mental health and fostering resilience amid global challenges. It also underscores the importance of healthcare providers maintaining their own mental well-being to continue offering high-quality care.

In Ontario, Health Minister Sylvia Jones marked the occasion by reaffirming the province’s commitment to primary care. She highlighted a $2.1 billion investment through the Primary Care Action Plan, aiming to connect every Ontarian with a family doctor or primary care team by 2029. This initiative aligns with the day’s focus on strengthening primary care systems to better support both physical and mental health needs.

🌍 Global Recognition and Activities

WONCA is commemorating the day with a series of global webinars focusing on mental resilience in primary care. These sessions bring together family doctors, mental health experts, and patient advocates to discuss strategies for enhancing mental wellness support within communities.

Family doctors are often the first point of contact in the healthcare system, providing holistic care that addresses both physical and mental health. Their ongoing relationships with patients position them uniquely to identify early signs of mental health issues and to offer timely interventions.

🧠 The Importance of Mental Resilience in Primary Care

The 2025 theme emphasizes that mental resilience is crucial not only for patients but also for healthcare providers. Family doctors who prioritize their mental health are better equipped to care for others, creating a positive feedback loop that benefits entire communities.

By fostering environments that support mental well-being, family doctors can help reduce stigma, promote early intervention, and improve overall health outcomes.

📣 How You Can Participate

• Thank Your Family Doctor: A simple note or message of appreciation can go a long way in acknowledging their hard work and dedication.

• Share on Social Media: Use hashtags like #WorldFamilyDoctorDay and #WFDD2025 to spread awareness and celebrate the contributions of family doctors.

• Attend a Webinar: Participate in one of the global webinars hosted by WONCA to learn more about mental resilience in primary care.

Today, let’s recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of family doctors who are at the heart of our healthcare systems, ensuring healthier, more resilient communities.

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