Message from the Minister of Health and the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Deputy Minister of Health – Mental Health Week

Statement

Today marks the start of Mental Health Week, reminding us that our mental health is just as important as our physical health and that there are things we can do every day to look after our mental wellbeing.

May 6, 2024 | Ottawa, ON | Health Canada

Today marks the start of Mental Health Week, reminding us that our mental health is just as important as our physical health and that there are things we can do every day to look after our mental wellbeing.

This year’s theme, #CompassionConnects, calls us to be kind to ourselves and others as we experience stressful situations and handle setbacks. We all have a role to play in promoting positive mental health and eliminating stigma by being aware of our attitudes when asking for help, being respectful and compassionate to those who may be experiencing mental health problems, and talking openly about our own mental health. with people we trust.

Mental health problems can affect any of us. Our government is working collaboratively with provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to ensure that all Canadians have access to the mental health care services they need, no matter where they live.

We are positioning mental health as a full and equal part of our healthcare system. Through the Working Together to Improve Health Care for Canadians Plan, we are investing nearly $200 billion over the next decade to meet the health care needs of Canadians, including their mental health.

We know that younger Canadians face unique mental health challenges – at home, at school or just starting their careers. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated feelings of anxiety and uncertainty among young people.

In Budget 2024, we will create a Youth Mental Health Fund, the first of its kind, to provide more mental health care options for young people that are free and accessible. We also support the work of Kids Help Phone and invest in community-led projects through the Black Canadians Mental Health Fund.

Everyone’s mental health is important and the Government of Canada is working to expand our mental health support network so that no one is left out.

Tragically, suicide remains a serious public health problem affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. It is essential that Canadians have timely access to suicide prevention support. All Canadians need to know that help is available and that they are not alone.

The 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline is available across Canada to anyone who is thinking about suicide or self-harm, grieving someone who has died by suicide, or worried about someone else who may be thinking about suicide. Canadians can call or text 9-8-8 to access 24/7 bilingual, trauma-informed and culturally appropriate emotional distress and suicide prevention support. .

Anyone in Canada seeking additional mental health services and support, available where they live, can visit Canada.ca/mental-health.

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Health Canada
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