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In 2013, I had the honor of speaking at a youth mental health summit for the Canadian Mental Health Association's (CMHA) Halton-Region Branch. I also facilitated an interactive team building event (drumming) with the staff during Mental Health Week (the first week in May). Through working with this incredible organization, I learned so much about the state of mental health in Canada, the philosophy of the Canadian Mental Health Association, and the different branches.
Here are the facts: 20% of Canadians will confront a mental illness in their lifetime, 8% will battle depression, and 1% will experience "manic depression" (bipolar disorder). The CMHA says that "The economic cost of mental illnesses in Canada for the health care system was estimated to be at least $7.9 billion in 1998 - $4.7 billion in care, and $3.2 billion in disability and early death." In addition, "Mental illness is increasingly threatening the lives of our children; with Canada's youth suicide rate the third highest in the industrialized world."
The Canadian Mental Health Association began in 1918. It's one the oldest non-profit organizations in Canada. Through the hard work of 10,000 volunteers, the CMHA helps over 100,000 people a year, from over 120 communities. Believing that everyone should have sound mental health, the CMHA supports resiliency and recovery through service, research, education, and advocacy.
You can find Canadian Mental Health Association branches in Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Ontario, Winnipeg, BC, Peel, Hamilton, Kitchener, Vancouver, Niagra, Barrie, Durham, London, Sudbury, Kelowna, York Region, and over 100 locations throughout Canada. Each branch is an independent legal entity, with a Board of Directors, funding sources, and mental health services that cater to the unique needs of the community.
The Canadian Mental Health Association is a truly progressive organization. I am excited to see the strides forward that the CMHA takes in helping people who struggle with mental illness and ending stigma. Canada is my neighbor. I care about the well-being of my neighbor.
Here are the facts: 20% of Canadians will confront a mental illness in their lifetime, 8% will battle depression, and 1% will experience "manic depression" (bipolar disorder). The CMHA says that "The economic cost of mental illnesses in Canada for the health care system was estimated to be at least $7.9 billion in 1998 - $4.7 billion in care, and $3.2 billion in disability and early death." In addition, "Mental illness is increasingly threatening the lives of our children; with Canada's youth suicide rate the third highest in the industrialized world."
The Canadian Mental Health Association began in 1918. It's one the oldest non-profit organizations in Canada. Through the hard work of 10,000 volunteers, the CMHA helps over 100,000 people a year, from over 120 communities. Believing that everyone should have sound mental health, the CMHA supports resiliency and recovery through service, research, education, and advocacy.
You can find Canadian Mental Health Association branches in Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Ontario, Winnipeg, BC, Peel, Hamilton, Kitchener, Vancouver, Niagra, Barrie, Durham, London, Sudbury, Kelowna, York Region, and over 100 locations throughout Canada. Each branch is an independent legal entity, with a Board of Directors, funding sources, and mental health services that cater to the unique needs of the community.
The Canadian Mental Health Association is a truly progressive organization. I am excited to see the strides forward that the CMHA takes in helping people who struggle with mental illness and ending stigma. Canada is my neighbor. I care about the well-being of my neighbor.
About the Author:
Mike Veny is a compelling mental health speaker. Click here to see what others are saying.
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