January 28, 2014
The Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, and the Honourable Rob Nicholson, Minister of National Defence, today issued the following statement in recognition of the Bell Let’s Talk Day:
“Today, our Government is encouraging all Canadians to participate in the Bell Let’s Talk mental health initiative to help end the stigma around mental illness.
“Being strong means knowing when to ask for help, and when to seek care. Getting early and timely help is the best way to start on the path to a successful recovery.
“Initiatives like Bell Let’s Talk are an important part of overcoming the stigma that prevents those in need from reaching out. By spreading awareness, we are working to ensure that more Canadians learn about mental illness and know where to find help they need. By lending our voice to the cause, we can work together to break down the walls that surround mental illness.
“The health and well-being of Canada’s men and women in uniform, veterans and their families are a matter of great importance to our Government, and the partners who work with us to support them. That is why we strive to give those who have served the assistance and support they need. Thanks to the shared efforts of so many, veterans and personnel with mental health conditions now have greater access to a continuum of specialized care than ever before, and our work to help them continues to grow.
“Canadians shouldn’t suffer in silence when help is available. Today let’s talk, and encourage all those with mental health issues to seek the care they need.”
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The Honourable Julian Fantino Minister of Veterans Affairs and The Honourable Robert Nicholson Minister of National Defence”
Joshua Zanin
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans of Affairs
613-996-4649
Media Relations
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
Julie Di Mambro
Press Secretary to the Minister of National Defence
Office of the Minister of the Department of National Defence
(613) 996-3100
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: (613) 996-2353
Toll-Free: 1 866 377-0811
