Today marks the beginning of Mental Health Week, reminding us that our mental health is just as important as our physical health and there are things we can do every day to take care of our mental wellbeing.
This year's theme, #CompassionConnects, calls on 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 breaking down stigma by being aware of our attitudes towards asking for help, being respectful and compassionate to those who may be experiencing mental health challenges, and speaking openly about our own mental health with people we trust.
Mental health challenges can affect any of us. Our government is working collaboratively with provinces, territories and Indigenous communities to ensure 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 health care system. Through the Working Together to Improve Health Care for Canadians Plan, we're investing close to $200 billion over the next decade to support the health care needs of Canadians, including their mental health.
We know that younger Canadians are facing unique mental health challenges - at home, in school, or just starting out in their careers. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated feelings of anxiety and uncertainty among youth.
In Budget 2024, we're creating a first-of-its-kind Youth Mental Health Fund to deliver more mental health care options for youth that are free and accessible. We're also supporting the work of Kids Help Phone and investing in community led-projects through the Mental Health of Black Canadians Fund.
Everyone's mental health matters and the Government of Canada is working to broaden our mental health support network so that no one falls through the cracks.
Tragically, suicide continues to be a serious public health issue affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. It is essential for Canadians to have timely access to suicide prevention support. All Canadians need to know that help is available and they are not alone.
The 9-8-8: Suicide Crisis Helpline is available across Canada for anyone thinking about suicide or self-harm, grieving someone who 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 suicide prevention and emotional distress support.
Anyone in Canada who is looking for additional mental health supports and services, available where they live, can visit Canada.ca/mental-health.
Please take good care and remember to choose kindness as often as possible. When we create connections rooted in compassion and caring, it is an important step in building the pathways to good mental health and support.
The Honourable Mark Holland, P.C., M.P.
The Honourable Ya'ara Saks, P.C., M.P.
