May 6, 2015
OTTAWA — Defence Minister Jason Kenney issued the following statement:
“Every day, Canadians across the country face mental health challenges. In the past many have suffered in silence, not seeking professional help – today we know that more people than ever are coming forward. The efforts of organizations such as Canadian Mental Health Association and initiatives such as Mental Health Week, are key to continuing this forward momentum in the critical effort towards improving mental health and reducing the stigma associated with mental illness.
“During our Afghanistan mission – the longest sustained military conflict in our nation’s history – the Canadian Armed Forces learned much about the challenges associated with operational stress injuries and other mental health conditions. The result is that we have made great progress in raising awareness within our organization and have greatly improved the services and support mechanisms available to military members and their families, regardless of the source of mental health issues. More specifically, we recently announced additional investments and enhancements in the areas of mental health staffing, mental health education for military personnel, military family support programs and increased technology.
“I encourage all Canadians, during this year’s Mental Health Week, to first, seek help if you need it; second, support those around you and encourage them to seek support when they need it; and third, learn more about how to maintain and improve your own mental health.”
Lauren Armstrong
Office of the Minister of National Defence
(613) 996-3100
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-996-2353
Toll-Free: 1-866-377-0811
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca
