Today is World Mental Health Day and this year's theme is, "It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace." Prioritizing workplace mental health is good for people, companies, and communities, and we are committed to improving the health and mental well-being of all Canadians regardless of where they live, work or play.
As employers and employees, we bring our whole selves to work, including stress from major events and day-to-day life. Likewise, stress from work can impact our mental health in our lives outside of work. It's okay not to be okay - help is available if you need it.
To ensure that help is available where and when people need it, the Government of Canada is taking a compassionate approach to provide a range of support services and resources that can help address mental health challenges. Through the Working Together to Improve Health Care for Canadians Plan, close to $200 billion over 10 years is being invested to improve health services across the country.
Young people in particular have been struggling with mental health and well-being. Changing responsibilities such as entering or engaging in the workforce, balancing work, school and personal commitments may be a new experience for some young adults and can impact their mental health. Mental health care is an essential part of ensuring every young person in Canada can reach their full potential. Canada's new Youth Mental Health Fund will help community health organizations provide more care for younger Canadians.
As we approach the one-year anniversary of the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline on November 30, 2024, we can already see what a difference this resource is making in the lives of people in Canada. With more than 250,000 calls and texts received since its launch last November, 9-8-8 is providing a safe space to talk.
9-8-8 is available right across the country and offers trauma-informed and culturally appropriate suicide prevention crisis support in both official languages 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you or someone you care about is thinking of suicide, please call or text 9-8-8.
Mental health is health, and every single person should have access to the mental health support they need, when and where they need it. Please take advantage of your employee assistance program, if you have one available to you, or consult Canada.ca/mental-health for a list of free mental health resources.
As you go through your daily routines and face the challenges that life presents, take time to check in on your work colleagues and loved ones, or to reach out for support. There is always someone waiting to lend a compassionate and empathetic ear.
The Honourable Ya'ara Saks, P.C., M.P.
