How The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Is Transforming Stigma(Tm)

By Mike Veny


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.

Canada has some disturbing mental health statistics, like most other places in the world. 20% of the people will experience mental illness in their lifetime, 8% percent will experience depression, and 1% of Canadians are diagnosed with bipolar disorder, also known as "manic depression". The most disturbing statistic of all is the suicide rate. According to the CMHA, "Suicide accounts for 24% of all deaths among 15-24 year olds and 16% among 25-44 year olds." It is also "one of the leading causes of death in both men and women from adolescence to middle age."

Known as organization that walks it's talk, the Canadian Mental Health Association supports recovery and resiliency through advocacy, education, research, and service. The CMHA was founded in 1918 and is one of the oldest charities in Canada. On average, the CMHA serves 100,000 people in 120 communities throughout Canada with 10,000 dedicated volunteers.

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.

As a neighbor of Canada, I am 100% in support of the work of the Canadian Mental Health Association. I look forward to new developments that the CMHA takes to end stigma and help people with mental illness. I care about my neighbor.




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