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CHANGING DIRECTIONS, CHANGING LIVES: The Mental Health Strategy for Canada Addresses Northern and First Nations Priorities
Whitehorse, Yukon, May 15, 2012 – Building on last week’s release of the first-ever Mental Health Strategy for Canada, the Mental Health Commission of Canada started its provincial and territorial launches today in Whitehorse. Changing Directions, Changing Lives is a plan designed to improve the mental health of all Canadians and it was the focus of an information session at the symposium Building a Sustainable Wellness Network for Yukon.
“A strategy for Canada would be sorely lacking if it did not emphasize the unique needs of Northern and First Nations, Inuit and Métis populations,” says Commission President and CEO, Louise Bradley.
“Ensuring that the mental health needs of people in Yukon are met will require participation on all levels, working together in areas like funding, incentives for professionals in remote regions, enhanced training locally, and better use of technologies.”
Changing Directions, Changing Lives draws on unprecedented input from thousands of Canadians, including considerable engagement in Yukon and with the Assembly of First Nations. The Strategy puts forward the best possible balance of different perspectives and will enable everyone to contribute to the improvement of mental health outcomes.
“It is good to see the Strategy is inclusive of northern and remote communities and of First Nations,”
says Yukon First Nations Grand Chief Ruth Massie. “We look forward to reviewing this Strategy with the Yukon First Nation communities. “
The release of the Mental Health Strategy for Canada marks the first time that Canada has created a shared vision and set of priorities that will guide the efforts of the public and private sector, the service delivery sector and all Canadians to improve mental health outcomes.
ABOUT THE MENTAL HEALTH COMMISSION OF CANADA
The Mental Health Commission of Canada is a catalyst for change. We are collaborating with hundreds of partners to change the attitudes of Canadians toward mental health problems and to improve services and support. Our goal is to help people who live with mental health problems and illnesses lead meaningful and productive lives. Together we spark change.
The Mental Health Commission of Canada is funded by Health Canada.
www.mentalhealthcommission.ca strategy.mentalhealthcommission.ca
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Contact:
Kyle Marr, Senior Communication Specialist Mental Health Commission of Canada Office: (403) 385‐4050
Cell: (587) 226-8782
kmarr@mentalhealthcommission.ca
The views represented herein solely represent the views of the Mental Health Commission of Canada.
Production of this document is made possible through a financial contribution from Health Canada.