1 00:00:01,134 --> 00:00:03,070 Hi, I'm Brigadier General Scott Malcolm, 2 00:00:03,070 --> 00:00:05,272 Canadian Armed Forces Surgeon General. 3 00:00:05,272 --> 00:00:07,441 I'm extremely proud of the meaningful contributions 4 00:00:07,441 --> 00:00:09,109 that our members make to peace, security, 5 00:00:09,109 --> 00:00:11,144 and humanitarian efforts, both at home and abroad. 6 00:00:11,144 --> 00:00:13,714 While CAF service is extraordinarily rewarding, 7 00:00:13,714 --> 00:00:17,351 there are times when one must make sacrifices. 8 00:00:17,351 --> 00:00:20,621 For example, this could include taking a posting to a location 9 00:00:20,621 --> 00:00:22,556 far away from friends and family 10 00:00:22,556 --> 00:00:25,592 or deploying for an extended period to a hostile location. 11 00:00:25,592 --> 00:00:27,461 Not surprisingly, these sacrifices can be 12 00:00:27,461 --> 00:00:30,464 a significant source of stress for many of us. 13 00:00:30,464 --> 00:00:31,965 As the Surgeon General, 14 00:00:31,965 --> 00:00:33,867 I'm passionate about the health and well-being 15 00:00:33,867 --> 00:00:36,103 of all CAF members and ensuring that anyone 16 00:00:36,103 --> 00:00:38,605 who may be struggling is able to get the help they need. 17 00:00:38,605 --> 00:00:41,542 It's important that you know that there are a variety of ways 18 00:00:41,542 --> 00:00:43,277 that you can access mental health care. 19 00:00:43,277 --> 00:00:45,579 The CAF has confidential, virtual and in-person 20 00:00:45,579 --> 00:00:47,347 mental health professionals available, 21 00:00:47,347 --> 00:00:50,017 including psychiatrists, psychologists, 22 00:00:50,017 --> 00:00:51,752 social workers, and mental health nurses 23 00:00:51,752 --> 00:00:54,521 who can be accessed regardless of where you serve. 24 00:00:54,521 --> 00:00:57,124 Appointments can be made by contacting 25 00:00:57,124 --> 00:00:58,659 your Health Services Centre. 26 00:00:58,659 --> 00:01:00,894 As well, the Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program 27 00:01:00,894 --> 00:01:02,963 has mental health support 28 00:01:02,963 --> 00:01:06,667 and crisis services available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 29 00:01:06,667 --> 00:01:09,169 The CAF also offers an Addictions Treatment Program, 30 00:01:09,169 --> 00:01:11,171 Chaplaincy services, 31 00:01:11,171 --> 00:01:12,840 a Family Information Line, 32 00:01:12,840 --> 00:01:15,309 and an Operational Stress Injury Support Program. 33 00:01:15,309 --> 00:01:18,812 As well, anyone who is thinking about suicide 34 00:01:18,812 --> 00:01:20,714 can call or text 9-8-8 35 00:01:20,714 --> 00:01:23,417 for immediate bilingual suicide prevention help. 36 00:01:23,417 --> 00:01:26,220 This number works anywhere in Canada. 37 00:01:26,220 --> 00:01:28,622 Defence Team public servant employees, 38 00:01:28,622 --> 00:01:31,391 I encourage you to contact the Employee Assistance Program 39 00:01:31,391 --> 00:01:33,927 if you or your family members are struggling. 40 00:01:33,927 --> 00:01:36,296 Free, short-term counselling services are available 41 00:01:36,296 --> 00:01:38,899 in person, over the telephone, 42 00:01:38,899 --> 00:01:40,400 or online to help you with personal, 43 00:01:40,400 --> 00:01:42,369 family, or work-related concerns. 44 00:01:42,369 --> 00:01:44,204 In closing, remember, 45 00:01:44,204 --> 00:01:46,273 there is no health without mental health. 46 00:01:46,273 --> 00:01:49,243 If you're struggling, make your mental health a priority. 47 00:01:49,243 --> 00:01:51,144 Reach out and get the help you need. 48 00:01:51,144 --> 00:01:53,113 We're here for you.