Today marks the beginning of Mental Health Week, where this year's theme -"My Story", is about sharing stories and experiences with each other to benefit our mental health, break down stigma, and help others feel that they are not alone.
Mental health and substance use issues affect us all. To meet people where they are, we must prioritize effective mental health care-whenever and wherever they are needed.
Our government remains committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of people across Canada and working with our partners on improving access to health and substance use services. We are also committed to addressing the unprecedented toxic drug and overdose crisis that continues to have a tragic impact on many communities and families across the country.
With Budget 2023, we have proposed investments to renew the Canadian Drugs and Substances Strategy, which would continue to guide our government's work to save lives, support people who use drugs, and protect the health and safety of Canadians. We are also investing close to $200 billion to improve health care for Canadians, which includes efforts to integrate mental health and substance use care throughout the entire health care system.
Mental health is health.
As we reflect on the importance of sharing our stories to give others courage and hope to overcome their own struggles, let's continue to reach out for help when we need it. If you're struggling, or know someone who is, the Wellness Together Canada (WTC) portal provides free and confidential 24/7 support, ranging from self-assessment and peer support to one-on-one sessions with social workers, psychologists and other health professionals. WTC is available to anyone in Canada or Canadians abroad who are looking for mental health or substance use help. You can also access new resources, including a self-assessment tool and tracker that monitors mood and mental well-being, through the PocketWell app.
Indigenous Peoples who need immediate emotional support, crisis intervention, or referrals to community-based services can access experienced and culturally sensitive counsellors online through the Hope for Wellness Help Line or by calling 1-855-242-3310.
Everyone in Canada has access to Talk Suicide Canada, which offers bilingual and judgment-free crisis and suicide prevention support, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 1-833-456-4566 and text (evenings) to 45645. Residents of Quebec can call 1-866-277-3553 or visit suicide.ca for support by text and online chat.
This Mental Health Week, we encourage you to join the conversation by sharing your own story using the hashtags #MyStory and #MentalHealthWeek on social media platforms. Together, we can end the stigma around mental illness while encouraging more people to seek help and support.
The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Health
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, and Associate Minister of Health
