DM/VCDS message on Mental Illness Awareness Week

October 5, 2020 - Defence Stories

This week, we recognize Mental Illness Awareness Week, an important opportunity to promote dialogue about and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. It’s also a chance to highlight resources available for those in need, because mental health issues can come in many forms, and can affect anyone.

As it has for many Canadians, the global COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenge to which the Defence Team has had to adapt. Defence Team members, as well their families, have had to make significant adjustments to the way they work and live in order to accommodate this new reality.

Through it all, the health and safety of the Defence Team has always been our priority. We are continuing to provide support and resources during this difficult time and assure that our military members and civilian employees have access to the help they need, when they need it. More than ever, we are committed to strengthening our programs and support services to meet the evolving needs of our Defence Team members.

We all have a role to play in encouraging discussions on this important topic. If you need help, reach out to someone. Please know that it is okay to not be okay. Support is available, and you are not alone. If you think that a colleague, friend, or family member is suffering, ask if they are okay, really okay, and offer your support. We understand that this may be difficult to do, but please know that this small gesture can make a big difference.

For those currently combating mental illness, do not avoid or delay accessing support services and treatment. If you or someone you know requires emergency mental healthcare, help is immediately available by calling 911.

Please remember that there are services and support available to the entire Defence team. Both our military members and civilian employees can call 1-800-268-7708 for the Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program and the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Civilian employees can also reach out to the EAP peer referral service (accessible only on the National Defence network) during working hours and military families can receive confidential support through the Family Information Line at 1-800-866-4546, a 24/7 service that offers support to military members and their families. There are also Canadian Armed Forces programs and services available on the You’re Not Alone web page.

Let’s all do our part to decrease stigma and encourage access to care. For more information on Mental Illness Awareness Week, please visit the Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health’s website.