A Message from Jane Philpott, Minister of Health
Press Release
Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 2-8, 2016)
and World Mental Health Day (October 10, 2016)
October 7, 2016
One in three Canadians will be affected by a mental illness in their lifetime.
During Mental Illness Awareness Week, and on World Mental Health Day, I encourage you to speak candidly with your friends and family about mental health, take steps to improve it, and reach out to those that may need a helping hand.
Our government is committed to improving mental health care for Canadians. I am working with provincial and territorial Health Ministers to develop a new Health Accord to improve access to and availability of quality mental health services.
Supporting research is also allowing us to better understand the neuroscience around mental health and mental illnesses. Research is contributing to innovative support programs and projects to help address depression, support suicide prevention, and deal with post-traumatic stress disorder for patients, including a PTSD training program for physicians and specialists. Our government has also made further investments to improve mental health outcomes for First Nations and Inuit, including better access to services, new crisis response teams and more mental wellness teams.
Additionally, I would like to commend the Mental Health Commission of Canada for its work in addressing stigma, building knowledge, and promoting the National Standard of Canada for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace.
As we raise awareness for mental health, we can all play a part in creating a more positive environment for those who suffer, sometimes in silence. I have said many times that we need to give our mental health as much care and attention as we do our physical health. Learning about risk factors, symptoms, and treatment can help us all reduce the stigma and help us all improve our mental health.
Most importantly, if you or someone you know requires assistance, please find important information here on how to access services in your region.
The Honourable Jane Philpott, P.C., M.P.
Related Links
- Mental Health services
- Mental Health Commission of Canada
- Canadian Mental Health Association: Getting Help
- Support for First Nations and Inuit Communities
- Preventing suicide: Get help
- Promoting positive mental health
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