Media Advisory - Mental Health Commission of Canada shares Mental Health Strategy for Canada internationally

OTTAWA, Aug. 15, 2012 /CNW/ - Demonstrating international leadership on an issue that affects millions of people around the globe, Mental Health Commission of Canada President and CEO Louise Bradley will share details of the launch of the country's first-ever mental health strategy for Canada during a visit to Australia and New Zealand from August 15-31, 2012.

The visit, sponsored by the National Mental Health Commission of Australia, will enable Bradley to provide a perspective on mental health in Canada during a conference taking place August 21 - 24 in Cairns, Australia organized by Australia's Mental Health Services.

Bradley will also meet with mental health experts, government officials and members of the media in several cities in Australia and New Zealand to discuss Canada's ground-breaking mental health strategy and to share lessons learned about mental health approaches.

The visit is an opportunity for Bradley and the Mental Health Commission of Canada to continue growing relationships with international partners on common mental health issues that challenge people around the world. It will also allow her to bring home ideas about strategies to implement mental health reforms from colleagues in Australia and New Zealand.

In addition to launching Changing Directions, Changing Lives: the Mental Health Strategy for Canada in May 2012, Canada was host to the international stigma conference in June.  The MHCC continues to be extensively engaged in research initiatives such as At Home/Chez Soi, which is focused on mental health and homelessness, and has been actively working with partners toward a psychological health and safety standard in the workplace, among other initiatives.  Commission representatives are scheduled to return to Australia and New Zealand in March 2013 as part of a leadership exchange opportunity.

INTERVIEWS
Members of the media are invited to arrange interviews with Louise Bradley to discuss Canada's new mental health strategy, schedule permitting.

ABOUT THE MENTAL HEALTH COMMISSION OF CANADA
The Mental Health Commission of Canada is a catalyst for change. We are collaborating with hundreds of partners to change the attitudes of Canadians toward mental health problems and to improve services and support. Our goal is to help people who live with mental health problems and illnesses lead meaningful and productive lives. Together we spark change.

The Mental Health Commission of Canada is funded by Health Canada.
www.mentalhealthcommission.ca
strategy.mentalhealthcommission.ca

The views represented herein solely represent the views of the Mental Health Commission of Canada.
Production of this document is made possible through a financial contribution from Health Canada.

SOURCE: Mental Health Commission of Canada

Kyle Marr, Senior Communication Specialist
Mental Health Commission of Canada
Office: (403) 385‐4050
[email protected]