Ministers O’Regan and Sajjan Mark Mental Health Week

Ottawa – The Honourable Seamus O’Regan, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, and the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of National Defence, today issued a statement in recognition of Mental Health Week:

“Today, as we mark the beginning of Canada’s 67^th Mental Health Week, we take time to reflect upon the importance of taking care of our mental health. This week promotes awareness of all mental health issues, including illnesses like depression and anxiety, as well as operational stress injuries such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that affect Veterans, Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, and their families.

 “As Canadians, we are proud of our women and men in uniform, and their exemplary service to our country. But we know, too, that this service can come with unique physical and mental challenges. That is why we must emphasize the importance of mental health, just as much as we do physical health and fitness.

“No one should feel alone on the road to recovery. Seeking help shows strength and there are a number of resources in place for those struggling with a mental health issue. The Government of Canada offers a wide range of mental health services, support, and information for Veterans, members of the CAF, and their families. This includes free, confidential counselling, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling 1-800-268-7708.

“The CAF-Veterans Affairs Canada Joint Suicide Prevention Strategy unveiled in October presents a holistic approach to suicide prevention. Going forward, the CAF Total Health and Wellness Strategy will expand wellness beyond the traditional health care model. VAC’s well-being programs support Veterans in all areas of life where stress can cause mental health problems and suicidal thoughts, complementing supports provided by Canada’s public and private sectors.

“This week brings mental health into focus, but taking care of ourselves and those around us is something we must do every day of the year. We take this opportunity to express our gratitude to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) for all the hard work they put into keeping the conversation about mental health going, across Canada and year after year.

“We encourage all Veterans, CAF personnel, and Canadians to reach out to one another in a gesture of solidarity in supporting mental wellness for all.

“Let’s GET LOUD for mental health.”

Contacts:

Media Relations
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
vac.media-medias.acc@vac-acc.gc.ca

Alex Wellstead
Press Secretary
ffice of the Minister of Veterans Affairs
613-996-4649

Byrne Furlong
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of National Defence
(613) 996-3100
Email: byrne.furlong@forces.gc.ca