Mental Health Commission of Canada launches Changing Directions, Changing Lives: The Mental Health Strategy for Canada in Manitoba

WINNIPEG, Oct. 2, 2012 /CNW/ - Building on the successful release of Canada's first-ever mental health strategy earlier in May, the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) was invited to Winnipeg to launch Changing Directions, Changing Lives: The Mental Health Strategy for Canada in Manitoba.

The Commission is holding regional events across the country to extend the conversation about how the Strategy can improve mental health and about what can be done to bring the Strategy to life in our communities.

"The government of Manitoba has shown great commitment to improving mental health.  A number of the priorities and objectives set out in the province's own mental health strategy released in 2011, called Rising to the Challenge: A Strategic Plan for the Mental Health and Well-Being of Manitobans, are also reflected in our strategy," says MHCC President and CEO, Louise Bradley. "The release of the Strategy marks a historic milestone for our country, the millions of Canadians living with mental health problems and illnesses, their families and, all those who are working to ensure that every Canadian can enjoy the best mental health."

"We welcome the release of Canada's first-ever mental health strategy, and we congratulate the Mental Health Commission of Canada on this tremendous accomplishment," says Manitoba's Health Minister Theresa Oswald. "We look forward to continued collaboration with the Commission, mental health partners and other levels of government to promote mental health and improve services for Manitobans and all Canadians."

"Much has been accomplished during the first year of our five-year provincial mental health strategy, and we've seen the tremendous value of having a strategic plan," says Manitoba's Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs Minister Jim Rondeau. "The release of the Mental Health Commission's national strategy will provide additional inspiration and guidance and help build on that momentum."

The release of Changing Directions, Changing Lives: The Mental Health Strategy for Canada marks the first time that Canada has created a shared vision and set of priorities that will guide the efforts of the public and private sector, the service delivery sector and all Canadians to improve mental health outcomes.

The Strategy sets out recommendations for change that promise to improve the quality of life for Canadians in every province and territory, grouping these changes into six key strategic directions:

1. Promote mental health across the lifespan in homes, schools and workplaces, and prevent mental illness and suicide wherever possible;
2. Foster recovery and well-being for people of all ages living with mental health problems and illnesses, and uphold their rights;
3. Provide access to the right combination of services, treatments and supports, when and where people need them;
4. Reduce disparities in risk factors and access to mental health services, and strengthen the response to the needs of diverse communities and Northerners;
5. Work with First Nations, Inuit and Métis to address their mental health needs, acknowledging their distinct circumstances, rights and cultures; and,
6. Mobilize leadership, improve knowledge and foster collaboration at all levels.

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
Cell: [phone]
[email protected]